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THE 



IN/Cineral TVaters 



OF THE 



nitttr BtnttB nnh ffianatrtr, 



WITH A MAP AND PLATES, 



AND 



GENERAL DIRECTIONS FOR REACHING MINERAL SPRINGS. 



BY 

J. J. MOORMAN, M. D. 

Resident Physician at the White Sulphury Lecturer on Anatomy 
and Physiology in Roanoke College ^ Va., ^c, tffc. 

.y.fE'."/ ■♦'' '■"''' '.'.o-> 

c- 

KELLY & PIET. 

1867. 



^^~■ 



MAP 

of tlie 



%^ SPRINGS REGION IN VIRGINIA 




I '■ 



Entered, according to Act of Congress, in the year 1867, by 

KELLY & PIET, 

In the Clerk's Office of the District Court of Maryland. 



6i 



S. D. GEOSS, M. D. 

PROFESSOR OF SURGERY I2T JEFFERSON MEDICAL 
COLLEGE, PHILADELPHIA, 

In testimony of a 
high appreciation of his head 
and heart — as an humble tribute to his 
distinguished ability as a Teacher, Author and Prac- 
titioner of the Healing Art ; and under the 
promptings of a long-cherished 
personal friendship, 

THIS VOLUilE 

IS MOST EESPECTFULLT INSCRIBED. 

The Author. 



TO THE PUBLIC. 



FOR more than thirty years I have dn-ected special attention 
to the investigation of tiie nature and medicinal applicability 
of mmeral waters. Dm-mg this time, I have resided, throughout 
the vratering season, at the White Sulphur Springs, where, in 
the character of Resident Physician, I have enjoyed ample 
opportunities of witnessing the various and moditied effects of 
the water, in almost every variety of disease, and state of the 
sj^stem. 

Although my attention, during this time, has been especially 
directed to the investigation of the character of the water of 
that spring, I have not neglected the other valuable waters of 
the country, nor failed to appreciate their various peculiarities, 
and their relative and positive merits. 

While my position has enabled me to witness the virtues of 
mineral waters in diseases, it has, at the same time, fully satisfied 
me not only that their good effects are often lost, but that conse- 
quences highly injurious occasionally result from their injudi- 
cious use. 

1* 



6 TO THE PUBLIC. 

Impressed with the importance of arresting the abuse of the 
White Sulphur waters, and of leading to a more correct admin- 
istration of them, I published, in 1839, a pamphlet designed as a 
" Directory " for the use of these waters. It was with diffidence 
I undertook this pioneer effort in a field so entirely unexplored ; 
for, although thousands of invalids had, for more than half a 
century, annually resorted to these waters, up to the period of 
issuing the "Directory," not a line had ever been published, 
relative to their medicinal applicability, or the proper methods 
of prescribing them. 

Satisfied from experience, that the little effort alluded to was 
not without beneficial effects in guiding to a more prudent use 
of the waters, I published, in 1846, a small volume entitled 
"Virginia Springs," and designed to embrace what was then 
known of the various mineral springs in Virginia. 

In 1855, and again in 1857, new and enla] ged editions of the 
work were issued. In 1859, the previous editions having been- 
exhausted, a new one, much enlarged, and embracing not only 
the Virginia Springs, but also the Springs of the Southern and 
Western States, was issued under the title of the "■Virginia 
Springs and Springs of ilie South and West'' This work being 
now out of print, I have the pleasure to present to the public, in 
continuation of my labors in this field of inquiry, the present 
volume on the '■'■Mineral Springs of the United States and 
Canada P 

A gratifying public appreciation, and generous demand for my 
previous volumes, have encouraged me to a more extensive in- 



TO THE PUBLIC. 7 

vestigation of the mineral waters of the country, and to make 
the present volume embrace the entire series of mineral springs 
of IS'orth America that are known and regarded as places of public 
valetudinary and pleasure resort. I have been led to do so from a 
belief that a work comprehending in one treatise all the mineral 
waters of our continent would not fail to be an acceptable addi- 
tion to our Spring literature. 

The amount of reliable information that has been made public 
in relation to the numerous mineral fountains of America, is 
lamentably small, in reference to the importance of the subject. 
There have been various essays, and pamphlet publications in 
reference to individual springs, and in a few instances, volumes 
have been published of extensive groups of springs, such as Dr^ 
Steele's Analysis of the Saratoga Waters, and the previous 
volumes of the author on the Springs of Virginia and of the 
Southern and Western States of the Union. But with the ex- 
ception of Dr. Bell's valuable volumes on " Baths and Mineral 
Waters," and on the "Mineral and Thermal Springs of the 
United States and Canada,"- no effort has heretofore been made 
to group into one treatise the history, location, analysis, medi- 
cinal adaptations, &c., &c., of the entire mineral springs of the 
country. 

In a notice so extensive of mineral fountains, with the excep- 
tion of those of which I have a personal knowledge, I have 
necessarily had to depend largely upon the observations and 
writings of others ; and, in this connection, I desire to express 
my obligations especially, to the labors of my esteemed friend, 



8 TO THE PUBLIC. 

Dr. "Bell, of Pbiladelpliia, from whose works I liave derived im- 
portant facilities. 

In treating of springs as medicinal agents, (and it is in tliat 
point of view only that I have proposed to treat of them,) it has 
been my earnest eifort to present them before the public in an 
aspect as full and impartial as was possible. So far as the 
author's personal knowledge and experience, or reliable informa- 
tion obtained from other sources, have enabled him to do so, he 
has discharged the task with fidelity. 

It is to be regretted that no analysis has yet been made of 
many of the mineral fountains of the country, whose rising im- 
portance deserve such chemical test. Nor have these fountains, 
as yet, furnished, from observation, such reliable record of their 
adaptations as is desirable in forming a proper appreciation of 
their merits; hence, in reference to the precise quality and 
adaptations of such springs, we are necessarily left to inferences 
based upon analogies and somewhat uncertain comparisons. 

The absence of an analysis of a mineral water is less to be 
regretted, if a fair and reliable record of its virtues and appro- 
priate medical uses be obtained; for it is only by multiplied 
facts, that is, by experience of its use, that we can speak positively 
of its effects. This being so, it is of especial importance that 
there should be an intelligent Kesident Physician at each foun- 
tain, who would make it his duty carefully to note the character 
of the various diseases submitted to its use, and the effects of the 
w^ater upon each case. Under such a system, each fountain 



TO THE PUBLIC. 9 

would soon establish a reliable record for itself; the invalid would 
be greatly assisted in his selection of the proper agent to which 
he should resort, and the just character of each water be pro- 
perly understood, and placed upon a firm and stable foundation. 
This field of observation ofl'ers large and exciting motives to a 
proper medical ambition; for such, as a general thing, has 
hitherto been the wild and hap-hazard empiricism in the use of 
mineral waters in America, and such is the importance of so 
classifying and systemizing then* uses, that they may be pre- 
scribed understandingly and safely, that he, who may contribute 
to this end, and thus render them the safe, certain and eflective 
remedies they were designed to be by a beneficent Providence, 
may well feel that he has neither lived nor labored in vain in his 
generation. 

I will only add, that I have endeavored, in getting up this 
work, to adhere to the plain, unassuming, practical method, 
which was, I think, a characteristic distinction of my previous 
volumes, and perhaps their chief merit. 

It has been my earnest desire to place in the hands of the 
public, and especially of invalids, a short and easy, but a con- 
densed and comprehensive, account of the mineral springs of 
the American continent, and to indicate with candor, and with 
as much plainness as possible, their nature and medicinal appli- 
cability. 

Wherever I could, with advantage to the public, I have availed 
myself of the observations of others, and I claim at the hands 



10 TO THE^ PUBLIC. 

of my readers this award of merit, at least : of liamng 
endeawrecl to make my fiumUe labors convenient and practicably 
valuable to them ; not by dazzling, but uncertain theories, nor by 
creating hopes that might end in sad disappointment, but by 
plain, practical facts in relation to the nature and proper uses of 
our various mineral waters. 

In arranging the matter for the volume, I shall treat of the 
waters under the heads of the States in which they are respec- 
tively found ; and have preferred to introduce the States, rather 
in the order of their minefol water shnilitudes, than in the usual 
geograjDhical or political order in which they are generally made 
to stand. Hence, I shall first treat of the "Waters of Virginia, 
and of the Western and Southern States ; and then of those of 
the North and East, commencing with the great Mineral Water 
State of New York. 

I have intentionally avoided in this, as in my previous volumes, 
all criticisms upon the improvements of spring property, or of 
the character of the accommodations at the several springs. 
Such criticism, in a printed voluine intended for reference long 
after its issue from the press, would be likely to mislead, and 
probably do great injustice; inasmuch as improvements, now 
faulty, may, before the next season, be rendered very comfort- 
able ; and bad hotel accommodations are often amended in a day 
by a change of landlord or manager. It is of the nature and 
medicinal applicability of mineral waters that I have felt called 
upon to write ; and tliis I have done without prejudice, fear or 



TO THE PUBLIC. 11 

favor ; having no interest, directly or indirectlj^, in any of tlie 
springs, and influenced alone in my estimation of them by per- 
sonal observation, or, when this has been wanting, from the most 
reliable information I could obtain. 

I am not vain enough to suppose that none of my opinions 
are erroneous ; to err is both human and common ; but upon the 
honest integrity with which they have been formed, the invalid, 
the profession, and the general public may rely. 

J. J. MOORMAN. 

White Sulfhur Springs, April, 1867. 



CONTENTS 



CHAPTER I. 



MINERAL WATERS IN GENERAL. 

PAGE. 

Early Use of, &c., &c. — Experience the only Guide in the 
Administration — Medical Efficacy, &c. — Modus Operandi, 
&c.— Length of Time to be Used, &c.— General Remarks 
on Administration, &c., &c 25 



CHAPTER n. 

MINERAL WATERS IN GENERAL CONTINUED. 

Resemblance to Mercury, &c. — Errors and Abuses of Mineral 
Waters, &c., &c. — Liability to Error in Reference to Sul- 
phur Waters — Changing from Spring to Spring — Dress — 
Diet — Exercise, &c., &c 44 



CHAPTER III. 

Use of Medicines and Different Mineral 'Raters — Pre- 
scribing Mineral Waters. ... 63 

2 



14 CONTENTS. 



CHAPTER IV. 

VIRGINIA SPRINGS. 

PAGE. 

Routes to the Virginia Springs '. 73 

CHAPTER V. 

WHITE SULPHUR SPRINGS. 

Location and General Cliaracteristics — Its Strength Uni- 
formly the Same — Does not Lose its Strength by Parting 
with its Gas — Does not Deposit its Salts when Quiescent — 
Its Gas Fatal to Fish — Its Early History — Known to the 
Indians as a "Medicine Water" — Fu'st Used by the 
Whites in 1778 — Progress of Improvement and Present 
Condition — Analysis of Mr. Hays and Professor Rogers. . 77 

CHAPTER VI. 

The Relative Virtues of the Saline and Gaseous Contents of 
the White Sulphur Water 91 

CHAPTER VII. 

GENERAL DIRECTIONS FOR THE USE OF THE WHITE 
SULPHUR WATER. 

Directions Meant to be General, not Specific — Must not 
Look to the Sensible Operations of the Water for its Best 
Eifects — Moderate or Small Quantities Generally Prefer- 
able—The Best Time for Takinor it— Leno-th of Time for 



C02^TENTS. 15 

PAGE. 

which it should be Used — Necessary Preparations of the 
System for the Use of the Water — Sensible Medicinal 
Effects of the Water— Effects on the Pulse— Synopsis of 
Kules to be Observed — Use of Baths 106 



-CHAPTER YIII. 

DISEASES IN" WHICH THE WHITE SULPHUR WATER MAT, 
OR MAY NOT, BE USEFULLY TRESCRIBED. 



ua — Gastralgia — Water Brash — Chronic Gastro-En- 
-teritis — Diseases of .the Liver — Jaundice — Enlargement of 
the Spleen — Chronic Irritation of the Bowels — Costive- 
ness — Piles — Diseases of the Urinary Organs — Chi-onic 
Inflammation of the Kidnej^s — Diabetes. FemaU Diseases : 
Amenorrhosa — Dysmenorrhoea — Chlorosis — LucorrhcEa — 
Clironic Affections of the Brain — ISTervous Diseases — 
Paralysis — Some Forms of Chronic Diseases of the Chest, 
or Breast Complaints, (to be avoided in Pulmonary Con- 
sumption,) — Bronchitis — Chronic Diseases of the Skin, 
Psoriasis, Lepra, Ill-Conditioned Ulcers — Rheumatism 
and Gout — Dropsies — Scrofula — Mercurial Diseases-^ 
Erysipelas — Kot to be Used in Diseases of the Heart, or 
in Schirrus and Cancer 124 

Society and its Amusements at the White Sulphur 193 

Chalybeate Spring at the White Sulphur . . . 198 



16 CONTENTS. 

CHAPTER IX. 

SALT SULPHUR SPRINGS. 

PA6E. 

Situation and Early History — Analysis by Professor Rodgers 
— Medical Applicability of the Waters — Iodine or New 
Spring — Analysis by Dr. Stewart, &c., &c 200 

CHAPTER X. 

RED SULPHUR SPRINGS. 

Situation and Improvements — Analysis — Adaptation to 
Diseases, &c., &c 209 

New River "White Sulphur Springs '. 224 

Blue Sulphur Spring 225 

CHAPTER XI. 

. SWEET SPRINGS. 

Situation and Early History— Former and Present Improve- 
ments — Analysis — Effects of the Waters — Adaptations of 
the Waters as a Beverage and as a Bath, &c., &c 226 

CHAPTER XII. 

SVfEET CHALYBEATE, OR RED SWEET SPRINGS. 

Their Analysis — Nature and Adaptations of the Waters as a 
Beverage and a Bath — Artificial Warm Baths, &c., &c. . . 235 



CONTEXTS. 1*7 



CHAPTER XIII. 

HOT SPEIXGS. 

PAGE. 

Effects of the Water Internally and Externally Used — 
Analysis — Diseases to which they are Applicable — Specu- 
lations on their Thermalization, &c., &c 245 

CHAPTER XIV, 

WARM SPRU^GS. 

Analysis — Time and Manner of Using — Diseases for which 
Employed, &c., &c = 254 

CHAPTER XV. 

HEALIXG SPRINGS. 

Histor}' and Description — Therapeutic Action — Diseases for 
which it may he prescribed, &c., &c 261 

CHAPTER XYI. 

ROCKBRIDGE ALIJ:*I SPRINGS. 

Early History and Description — Analysis and BemarTcs on 
Analysis — The Xame Alum a Misnomer, &c. — Thera- 
peutic Effects of the Waters — Diseases in which they are 
Employed — Their Excellent Effects in Scrofula, (fcc, &c. . 269 

CHAPTER XYII. 

BATH A L r il SPRINGS. 

Analysis — Diseases and States of the System in which they 
may be Prescribed 289 



18 CONTENTS. 

CHAPTER XVIII. 

PAGE. 

Rockbridge Baths 295 

Daggar's Springs. 298 

Cold Sulphur Springs 300 

Stribling Springs 301 

CHAPTER XIX. . 

Rawley's Springs 305 

Burner's Springs, or Seven Fountains , 307 

Jordan's "White Sulphur Springs 309 

Shannondale Springs 312 

CHAPTER XX. 

BATH, OR BERKELEY SPRINGS. 

Early History — Extract from General Washington's Will, 
&c. — Bath and Bathing Houses— Medicinal Properties of 

the Waters — Diseases for which Used, &c 314 

Orrick's Springs 323 

Capon Springs 323 

CHAPTER XXI. 

Coiner's Black and W^hite Sulphur 328 

Roanoke Red Sulphur 330 

Blue Ridge Springs 331 

Alleghany Springs 337 

Montgomery White Sulphur Springs 341 



CONTENTS. 19 

CHAPTER XXII. 

YELLOW SPKINGS. 

PAGE. 

Pulaski Alum Springs 344 

Grayson Sulphur Springs 350 

Holston Springs 352 

CHAPTER XXIII. 

Fauquier White Sulphur .• 354 

Buffalo Springs 356 

Huguenot Springs , 360 

Kew London Alum Springs 361 

CHAPTER XXIV. 

SPRINGS OF KENTUCKY. 

Harroclsburg — Rochester — Olympian — Blue Lick — Estill . . . 365 
CHAPTER XXY. 

MINERAL SPRINGS. OF OHIO. 

Ohio White Sulphur — Its History, Improvements, &c., &c. — 

Analyses — ]\Ieclicinal Adaptations, &c., &c 371 

Saline Chalybeate Spring 382 

Yellow Spring 383 

Westport Spring 384 

CHAPTER XXYI. 

SPRINGS OF TENNESSEE. 

White's Creek Spring— Robertson's— Winchester—Beersheba 
— Montvale — Tate's — Lee's Sulphur and Chalybeate — 
Alum Springs — Warm Springs on the French Broad 385 



20 CONTENTS. 

CHAPTER XXYII. 

SPRINGS OF KOKTH CAROLINA. 

PAGE. 

Warm and Hot Springs of Buncombe — Shocco Springs — 
Jones' White Sulpliur and Chalybeate — Kittrell's 
Springs 391 

CHAPTER XXVIII. 

SPRINGS OF SOUTH CAROLINA. 

Glenn's — West's— Springs in Abbeville and Laurens Dis- 
trict, &c. — Chick's Springs — Williamstown Springs — Ar- 
tesian Well in Charleston, &c 396 

CHAPTER XXIX. 

SPRINGS IN GEORGIA. 

Indian — Madison — Warm Springs — Gordon's — Catoosa 
Springs 399 

CHAPTER XXX. 

SPRINGS OF ALABAMA. 

Bladen Springs — Bailey's — Tallahatta Springs 401 

CHAPTER XXXI. 

SPRINGS OF MISSISSIPPI. 

Cooper's Well— Ocean Springs 403 



CONTENTS. 21 

CHAPTER XXXII. 

SPRINGS OF ARKANSAS. 

PAGE. 

WashitaHot Springs 408 

Springs of Florida 417 

CHAPTER XXXIII. 

MINERAL SPRINGS OF NEW YORK. 

Saratoga and Ballston Group — Congress — ^Putnmn — Pavil- 
lion — Union — High Rock — Iodine — Flat Rock — Hamilton 
Washington — Empire — At Ballston: Sans Souci — Low's 
Well— Park Well— New and Old Washington Springs- 
Sulphur Springs — Classification of Waters — Geological 
Position — Thermalization of Waters — Analyses of the 
Various Springs, &c., &c 419 

CHAPTER XXXIY. 

NEW TORK IVnNERAL WATERS CONTINUED. 

Improper Uses of the Saratoga Waters and its Evils — In- 
jurious Advice and Errors of Opinion as to the Nature 
and Use of Mineral Waters 433 

Diseases for which the Saratoga Waters maybe Prescribed — 
Albany Artesian WeU — Reed's Mineral Spring — HaUeck's 
Spring, &c 436 

CHAPTER XXXY. 

NEW YORK SULPHUR SPRINGS. 

Sharron Springs — Avon Springs 444 



22 . CONTENTS. 

CHAPTER XXXyi. 

NEW YORK SULPHUR AND ACIDULOUS SPRINGS. 

PAGE. 

Ciifton Springs — Manlius Springs — Cliittenango — Messina 
Sulphur Springs — Manlius Springs- — Auburn Springs — 
Chappiqua Springs — Spring at Troy — Newburg Springs 
— Springs in Dutcliess and Columbia Counties — Catskill 
Spring — ISTanticoke Spring — Dryden Spring — Rochester 
Spring — Springs in Monroe County : Gates, Mendon and 
Ogden — Yernon Springs — Saquoit Springs — Springs in 
Niagara County — Seneca or Deer Lick • Spring — Oak 
Orchard Acid Spring — Acid Spring at Clifton 456 

CHAPTER XXXVn. 

MINERAL SPRINGS OF PENNSYLVANIA. 

Bedford — Frankfort — Chalybeate Spring near Pittsburg — 
York Springs — Carlisle Springs — Perry County Springs — 
Doubling Cap and Chalybeate Springs — Fayette Springs — 
Bath Chalybeate Springs— Blossburg Spring— Ephrata 
Springs— Yellow Springs— Caledonia Springs 468 

CHAPTER XXXYIII. 

MINERAL SPRINGS OF VERMONT. 

Clarendon Gasoous Springs — Newberry Sulphur Springs — 
Highgate Springs — Alburgh Spring 482 

CHAPTER XXXIX. 

SPRINGS OP MASSACHUSETTS. 

Hopkinton Springs— Berkshire Soda Spring 484 



COXTEXTS. 23 

CHAPTER XL. 

MIXEEAL SPRINGS OF ?\EW JERSEY AKD IIAINE. 

PAGE. 

Scliooley's Mountain Spring 486 

Saline Liibec Spring in Maine — Dexter Chalybeate Spring. . 488 

CHAPTER XLI. 

MINERAL AND THERMAL WATERS BETWEEN THE MIS- 
SISSIPPI AND THE PACIFIC OCEAN. 

In California — Oregon — Kansas — New Mexico — Nebraska— 
Utah, &c., &c 489 

CHAPTER XLII. 

Table Exliibiting the Thermalization of the.Various Warm 
and Hot Springs of the United States and its Territories. . 500 

CHAPTER XLIH. 

MINERAL SPRINGS OF C-:^'ADA. 

Caledonia Springs — Charlottesville Spring — St. Catharine's 
Artesian "Wells— Yarennes Springs— St. Leon Springs— 
Plantagenet Spring— Caxt on Spring. . . 501 



THE 



dSimrHl ^j)r5<n:|s loi tlit 0.mizii mnim> 



CHAPTER I. 

MINERAL WATERS IN GENERAL. 

Early Use of, (&c., &c. — Experience the only Guide in the Adminis- 
tration — Medical Efficacy — Modus Operandi, &c. — Length of 
Time to he Used — General Remarks on Administration. 

m 

MiXEEAL waters rank among tlie ancient reme- 
dies used for the cure of disease. The Greeks, 
who in knowledge of medicine were superior to 
the nations who had preceded them, regarded 
natural medicated waters as a special boon of the 
Deity, and piously dedicated them to Hercules, 
the god of strength. They used them for drink- 
ing, and for general and topical bathing. Hippo- 
crates was acquainted with the value and uses of 
various mineral waters, and many other Greek 
physicians, we are told^ employed them for nu- 
merous diseases for which they are used at this 
day. 

With the Romans, mineral waters were a 
familiar remedy, not only in Italy, but in all the 
countries over which that nation obtained do- 
minion. Mineral springs were eagerly sought 



26 MINERAL WATERS IN GENERAL. 

out in the countries over wbich their conquests 
from time to time extended, and prompted by 
^•^ gratitude for the benefit which they experienced 
from their use, they decorated them with edifices, 
and each fount was placed under the protection of 
a tutelary deity." {Bell.) Pliny, in his natural 
history, treats of various mineral waters and their 
uses ; and it is a fact worthy of remark, that they 
were highly recommended by various Koman phy- 
sicians, in the fifth century, in the same diseases 
for which they are at this day so much employed 
— particularly for nervous and rheumatic diseases, 
and for derangements of the liver, stomach, and 
skin. 

With the modern nations of civilized Europe^ 
mineral waters, both as internal and external 
remedies, have always been held in high estima- 
tion. The national regulations that have from 
time to time been adopted to investigate their 
virtues and their appropriate applicability,"^ and to 
guard against their improper use^ sufiiciently 
manifest the importance that has been attached 
to them as remedial agents. Henry IV., we are 
told, '^during his youth had frequented the 
springs of the Pyrenees, and witnessing the 
abuses in the employment of so useful a remedy^ 
sought to correct them after his ascension to the 
throne of France. He nominated by edicts and 
letters-patent, in 1603, superintendents and super- 
intendents-general, who were charged with the 

\ 



DISCOVERY OF THEIR CONSTITUENT PARTS. 2T 

entire control over the use of mineral waters, 
baths J and fountains of the kingdom. Most of 
the mineral springs and bathing establishments 
on the continent of Europe are placed under a 
somewhat similar superintendencCj and a resident 
physician is also appointed by the government.'' 
{Bell.) 

Although mineral waters had been favorite 
remedial agents with the enlightened nations of 
the earth for many centuries, it was compara- 
tively but recently that chemistry, by minute 
analysis,^ was able to determine with precision 
their constituent parts. 

In 1670, the mineral waters of France were first 
fully analyzed by a commission appointed by the 
Academy of Sciences at Paris ; but it was not until 
1766, nearly a hundred years afterwards, that 
Bayen discovered the means of separating sulphur 
from sulphurous waters — nor until 1774 that the 
celebrated Borgamann demonstrated the existence 
of sulphuretted hydrogen gas. Meanwhile, phy- 
sicians stationed at the several watering places 
were active in observing and noting the various 
operations of the different waters on the human 
system, and in determining, from experience, the 
various cases in which they were beneficial or in- 
jurious. 

Experience the only sure Guide ijfi tlie Admimstra- 
tionj etc. — After all that science can effect in de- 



28 MINERAL WATERS IN GENERAL. 

termining tlie component parts of mineral waters, 
it is experience alone in their use that can be fully 
relied upon as to their specific effects, or applica- 
bility to particular diseases. Chemical analysis 
is important mainly as a matter of general scien- 
tific knowledge, and may be so far practically 
useful to the physician as to enable him to form 
correct general vieivs as relates to the nature and 
powers of the remedy ; but it is fallacious to sup- 
pose that an analysis, however perfect, can ever 
enable the physician, in the present state of our 
knowledge, and in tbe absence of practical observa- 
tion, to prescribe a mineral water with confidence 
or safety.- An accurate knowledge of the com- 
ponent parts of mineral waters might do much, I 
admit, to prevent the incessant mistakes and mis- 
chief which medical men commit in sending their 
patients, hap-hazard, to drink mineral waters 
which are often unadapted to their cases ; but it 
never can, in the absence of experimental know- 
ledge, qualify them for giving specific and detailed 
directions for their use. Dr. John Bell, in his 
valuable work on '^ Baths and Mineral Waters," 
has the following sensible and judicious passage 
upon this subject: " I wish not," he says, ^' to be 
ranked among the chemical physicians, who, 
having discovered the proportion of each foreign 
ingredient in the mineral spring, and studied its 
operation on the economy, pretend to determine 
the general effect of the compound. We may, 



EXPERIENCE THE BEST GUIDE. 29 

indeedj by a knowledge of the constituent parts, 
predict to a certain extent the medicinal power of 
the compound ; but it is only by multiplied factSj 
that is, expei'ience of its use^ that we can speak 
positively of its virtues." 

In no other country, perhaps, do mineral waters 
abound in greater variety than in the United 
States, and it is a subject of sincere regret, that 
their nature, applicability, and proper method of 
administration should have been so little studied, 
both by physicians and the public at large. It is 
true that certain opinions generally prevail in en- 
lightened circles as regards the curative powers 
of some of our more celebrated fountains ; and 
these opinions, so far as they go, being generally 
founded on experience, may, in the main, be toler- 
ably correct. Nevertheless, there is a lamentable 
want of information generally, and even among 
our more enlightened physicians, as to the specific 
nature and adapytation of mineral ivaters to par- 
ticular diseases— information, the want of which 
must always disqualify for the safe and confident 
recommendation of these valuable agents. 

A perfect knowledge of the various influences, 
and of the peculiar minute circumstances that con- 
trol the use of mineral waters in different systems, 
as well as the best methods of using them in cer- 
tain pathological conditions of the system,, must, 
as with all other medicines, be learned from ob- 
servation. Now, as physicians but rarely have 
3* 



30 MINEKAL WATERS IN GENERAL. 

an opportunity of observing the use of mineral 
waters for a sufficient length of time and in a suffi- 
cient variety of cases, and as but little has been 
written by those who have observed their effects, 
it ought not to be supposed that the medical pub- 
lic generally would be greatly enlightened on this 
subject. 

I have said that the opinions generally prevail- 
ing in enlightened circles relative to the curative 
powers of our principal mineral fountains, being 
founded on experience, may, in the main, be cor- 
rect. I would not be understood, however, as 
advising a reliance upon such ''popular fame." 
Information of this kind is sufficient to awaken 
attention and incite inquiry, but certainly should 
not be implicitly relied upon in individual cases. 
At best, it is generally '' hearsay '' opinion, made 
up, ordinarily, from partial and empirical sources ; 
or, quite as likely, from the prejudiced accounts 
which are brought by visitors from the different 
watering places^ and which are sweepingly favor- 
able, or prejudicial, as they may chance to have 
been benefited or worsted, and that without refer- 
ence to the specific action of the agent, or that 
clear understanding of the pathology of the case, 
which would serve as a safe guide in its applica- 
tion to others. Every physician knows how prone 
persons are to err in the use of medicines^ from 
the supposed resemblance of cases. Often am I 
pained to see persons persevering in the use of a 



EXPERIENCE THE BEST GUIDE. 31 

mineral water to their evident prejudice, and for 
no better reason than that Mr. or Mrs. Such-a-one 
was cured of a disease supposed to be similar ; or, 
by the general recommendation of some medical 
man who sent them to the '^mountains" with a 
^^ carte blaiicJie" to use "some of the mineral 
tuaters/' Occasionally it has become my painful 
duty to advise patients to retrace their melancholy 
steps homeward, without using any of the waters, 
because none were adapted to their case. 

Mineral waters are not a panacea ; they act, like 
all other medicines, by producing certain effects 
upon the animal economy, and upon principles 
capable of being clearly defined. It follows, that 
there are various diseases and states of the system 
to which they are not only not adapted, but in 
which they wouid be eminently injurious. 

Some years since, I was requested to visit a 
highly respectable gentleman, who had just ar- 
rived at the White Sulphur with his family, from 
one of our distant cities. He was in wretched 
health, and sought my advice as to the applica- 
bility of the water to his case. On examination, 
I felt astonished that any medical man of intelli- 
gence should have recommended such a case to 
mineral waters for relief. I advised the gentle- 
man to retrace his steps homeward, and put him- 
self under medical treatment, as he had no time 
to lose. Accordingly, the ensuing morning he 
recommenced his journey of seven hundred miles 



32 MINERAL WATERS IN GENERAL. 

to reacli his home. Medicine did for him what 
mineral waters were not calculated to do, and I 
have since heard of his entire recovery. This 
gentleman informed me that he had been influ- 
enced to undertake the distant, and, to him, pain- 
ful journey, by a physician who had never before 
prescribed for his case, and who candidly stated 
to him that he knew but little of the mineral 
waters of Virginia; but he had heard of many 
cures from their use, and therefore advised that he 
should hasten to give them a trial. Influenced 
by this vague opinion, the unfortunate invalid had 
dragged himself and his family seven hundred 
miles, under the vain hope of finding a remedy, 
which the physician should^ in such a case^ have 
found in his own office. Now a little more know- 
ledge of the nature of mineral waters, and a more 
commendable caution in advising their use, would 
have prevented the heav}^ sacrifice this gentleman 
incurred. I^or is this by any means an isolated 
instance ; my case-book furnishes many others 
equally strong, that have come under my observa- 
tion in the course of my practice. 

Medical Efficacy, etc. — Mineral waters are ex- 
ceedingly valuable as medicinal agents, are ap- 
plicable to a large circle of cases, and will, unques- 
tionably, cure many which the ordinary remedies 
of the shops will not. Nevertheless, it should 
always be borne in mind that they are not a 



MEDICAL EFFICACY. 33 

catJiolicon; that they are not to he used for every 
disease; and that, to he prescrihed successfullyj 
they must, like all other medicines, he prescrihed 
with reference to the nature and pathology of the 
case. Nor is this caution ordinarily more necessary 
in using the various medicines of the shops than in 
using the more potent mineral waters. 

Some there are, I know, who profess to he un- 
helievers in the medicinal activity of mineral 
waters, and who, without denying the henefit that 
is often derived from visiting such fountains, at- 
tribute the whole to travel, change of air, exercise, 
relaxation from business, etc., etc. Now, I freely 
admit that these are often important agents in 
the cure of a large class of cases ; hut, from long 
experience at a popular watering place, and the 
numerous cures I have seen effected from the water 
itself, totally disconnected with any of the adjuncts 
alluded to, it Would he quite as easy to convince 
me that bark is not tonic, that jalap does not purge, 
or that mercury will not salivate, as that mineral 
waters may not he an active and potent means of 
curing disease, entirely independent of the valu- 
able adjuvants that have heen alluded to. 

The advocates of the non-efficacy of mineral 
waters per se, would scarcely persist in this opinion, 
after seeing the large amount of active medical 
material obtained by evaporation from some of our 
more active waters; the lohite sulphur, for instance, 
which yields more than one hundred and fifty 



34 MINERAL WATERS IN GENERAL. 

grains to the gallon, and whicli, upon analysis, is 
found to consist of iodine, sulphur, the various 
combinations of soda, magnesia, and other active 
ingredients. Would it not be absurd to believe 
that so large an amount of these efficient medical 
substances, as is usually taken into the stomach 
by those who drink mineral waters in which they 
abound, could fail to exert 2i positive influence upon 
the economy? My own experience for many years, 
in the use of such waters, enables me to bear the 
most unequivocal testimony as to the direct and 
positive influence of many of them ujDon the human 
body. In the language of the celebrated Patissier 
lean unhesitatingly sa}^, that^ ^'in the general, 
mineral waters revive the languishing circulation, 
give a new direction to the vital energies, re-estab- 
lish the perspiratory action of the skin, bring back 
to their physiological type the vitiated or sup- 
pressed secretions, provoke salutary evacuations 
either by urine, or stool, or by transpiration; they 
bring about in the animal economy an intimate 
transmutation — a profound change; they saturate 
the sick body. How many sick persons, aban- 
doned by their physicians, have found health at 
mineral springs ? How many individuals, ex- 
hausted by violent disease, have recovered, by a 
journey to the mineral waters, their tone, mobility, 
and energy, to restore which, attempts in other 
ways might have been made with less certitude of 
success." And hence, most cordially do I adopt 



MODUS OPERANDI. 35 

tlie sentiments of the distinguished Dr. Armstrong, 
who, in speaking of the medicinal efficacy of min- 
eral waters, says, ^^ I dare pledge my luord, that, if 
tJiey he only fully and fairly tried, they ivill he found 
among the most poiverful agents lohich have ever 
heenhronght to the relief of human maladies.'' 

Modus Operandi, etc. — Various attempts have 
been made to account for the peculiar effects of 
mineral waters upon the system. They seem to 
act, in the first place, as a simple hygienic agent. 
Secondly, they act, in accordance with their con- 
stituent ingredients, specifically on the animal 
economy. Mineral waters exert their more im- 
portant influences upon the human body upon a 
different principle from many of the articles of the 
materia medica ; they are evidently absorbed, 
enter into the circulation, and change the consis- 
tence as, well as the composition of the fluids ; they 
course through the system, and apply the medical 
materials which they hold in solution, in the most 
minute form of subdivision that can be conceived of, 
to the diseased surfaces and tissues ; they reach and 
search the most minute ramifications of the capil- 
laries, and remove the morbid condition of those 
vessels, which are so commonly the primary seats of 
disease. It is thus that they relieve chronic dis- 
ordered action, and impart natural energy and 
elasticity to vessels that have been distended either 
by inflammation or congestion; while they com- 



36 MINERAL WATERS IN GENERAL. 

municate an energy to the muscular fibre and to 
the animal tissues generally which is not witnessed 
from the administration of ordinary remedies. 

Many of the articles of the materia medica seem 
to act by sympathy and counter-irritation, and 
to cure one organ of the body by irritating another ; 
thus calomel, by irritating the stomach and duode- 
num, is made to act efficiently upon the liver, to 
which organ it has a strong specific tendency. 
Not so, however, with mineral waters ; they never 
cure one organ hy irritating another, I can with 
confidence assert, that I have never seen mineral 
waters successfully used in any case in which they 
kept up a considerable irritation upon any of the 
organs of the body. 

Both physicians and patients are quite too much 
in the habit of looking to the immediate and sensi- 
Ue operations of mineral waters, and of judging 
of their efiicacy from such effects. In most 
cases, it is serviceable for such agents to open the 
bowels gently; and in some, it is best for them to 
purge actively. Occasionally, advantage is de- 
rived from promoting an increased flow of urine 
or perspiration ; but, as a general rule, the greatest 
good is derived from the absorption of the water, 
resulting in that ^'profound change" spoken of 
by Patissier, or, in other words, the alterative 
action of the remedy. It should always be borne 
in mind that this profound change — this alterative 
effect — is incompatible with constant or active 



MODUS OPERANDI. B7 

action of the water upon any of the emunctories. 
This, unquestionably, is true as relates to the 
WJiite Sulphur Water, and I believe it to be so 
with all alterative waters. 

So well convinced am I, that the alterative actiorh 
is the real curative action effected by sidpliur 
waters, in nine cases out of ten where any serious 
disease exists, that, ordinarily, I am not solicitous 
to obtain much daily increase of evacuation from 
any of the emunctories. On the contrary,! often find 
great advantage from the administration of some 
appropriate means to prevent the too free action of 
the water, especially on the bowels and kidneys. 
As a general rule, it is far better that such waters 
should lie quietly upon the system, without mani- 
festing much excitement upon any of the organs, 
and producing, at most, but a small increase in 
the quantity of the ordinary healthy evacuations. 

The quality or kind of evacuations produced by 
mineral waters is a matter of far more importance, 
and, when strong sulphur waters are used, never 
fail to evidence the existence and the extent to 
which alterative action is going on in the system, 
and to this persons using such waters should 
always pay a careful attention. 

I have said that the best effects of mineral 
waters are their alterative or changing effects ; and 
that in the administration of the White Sulphur, 
T do not, ordinarily, desire to provoke much 
increase of the natural evacuations. I do not 
4 



38 MINERAL WATERS IN GENERAL. 

wislij however, to be understobdj by this general 
declaration J as laying down an absolute rule of 
practice to govern all cases, nor to apply in 
reference to all waters. The administration of 
mineral waters, like the administration of every 
other remedy, should be governed in reference to 
the particular character and demands of each case ; 
and in such discriminating practice it v/ill some- 
times be found best to use them in a manner to 
produce active operations for a short time. I 
have, indeed, generally found, that those who are 
actively purged by mineral waters, if they have 
strength to bear it, will be best satisfied with the 
remedy at the time, and, in fact, are apt to feel 
better at the time, than those upon whom the water 
is exerting but little or no purgative effect. It 
may be laid down as a general fact, in the use of 
all alterative waters, subject to but few exceptions, 
that those on whose bowels they act freely, will 
feel best ivhile at the Springs ; while those who are 
but little purged, will feel best after they have left 
the Springs, and will, ordinarily, enjoy the most 
permanent advantage. The reason of this is 
obvious ; in the first case, the active purgation 
throws off the gross humors of the body, and the 
patient feels promptly relieved ; in the other case, 
the remedy lies upon the system, is absorbed, and 
gradually produces its changing influences — bring- 
ing the various secretory functions into a healthy 
condition — unloading and cleansing the machinery 



HOW LONG TO BE USED. 39 

of the economy — silently putting its ivories to 
rightSj and giving them their natural and healthy 
motion. All this requires time for its accom- 
plishment ; and hence, we often hear persons say, 
'^ I was no hetter while at the Springs, but I 
began to mend soon after I left, and have continued 
better since." Declarations of this kind we con- 
stantly hear by persons who have previously 
visited alterative Springs ; and they verify the 
correctness of my proposition. 

Length of Time to he used, etc. — To acute diseases, 
mineral waters are not adapted ; for all such they 
are too exciting, too prone to increase the activity 
of the circulation, and to stimulate the general 
system. It is in clironic diseases only that they 
are found so eminently serviceable. By chronic 
diseases I mean those slow diseases of the system 
uniformly attended either with simple excitement , 
chronic inflammation, or chronic congestion of the 
blood-vessels. To be permanently beneficial in 
diseases of this description, the use of mineral 
waters, like the disease for which they are taken, 
should be '^chronic." I mean an instantaneous 
cure should not be expected ; but that the remedy 
should be persisted in, and the cure gradually 
brought about. Sulphur waters, especially, may 
be easily brought into disrepute by short and im- 
perfect trials of them. To prove effectual, ^^ they 
should for the most part be continued daily, in 



40 MINERAL WATERS IN GENERAL. 

sufficient quantity until the disease gives way, or 
until their inefficacy has been fairly proved by an 
unremitted perseverance. In some cases of opthal- 
mia, of rheumatism, and slight cutaneous affections, 
I have known them to effect a cure in two or three 
weeks, while in other cases, apparently similar in 
all respects, twice, thrice, or even four times that 
period has elapsed before the cure had been accom- 
plished ; and what is here affirmed of these ex- 
ternal affections, is still more strongly applicable 
to internal diseases, which are seldom speedily 
overcome by these waters, how completely soever 
they may yield at last. In illustration of this 
point, as to internal diseases^ it may be mentioned 
that I have seen both chronic inflammation of the 
liver, and chronic inflammation of the rectum, 
where no benefit was produced for three or four 
weeks, and yet a continuation of the waters for six 
or eight weeks longer has effaced every vestige of 
the morbid indications for which they were pre- 
scribed. *' (^Armstrong on Sidjjhur Waters.) 

There is no greater folly in the use of mineral 
waters, than that of laying down a definite j^eriod 
of time for lohich they shoidd he used, without re- 
ference to their effects upon the system. Like all 
other medicines, mineral waters should be used, 
discontinued, or modified in their use, with a 
strict regard to their operations upon the body, 
and to their good or bad effects upon the disease. 
Whenever prescribed, their operations should be 



HOW LOXa TO BE USED. 41 

watched with the same care with which we watcli 
the effects of any other medicine ; and they should 
be persevered in, or temporarily or permanently 
discontinued, or controlled in their action by some 
appropriate adjuvant, according to the indications 
presented in each case. 

It will occur to every reflecting mind, that the 
expectation of being cured, or even essentially 
benefited, in an obstinate chronic disease, from a 
few days' use of any mineral water, is altogether 
unreasonable. I^evertlieless, I have often seen 
persons at watering places despairing of the effi- 
cacy of the remedy, simply because it had not 
produced an obvious and appreciable benefit in five 
or six days. A sort of stereotyped opinion indeed 
jorevails with numerous visitors to such places, 
that the water should not in any case be used 
longer than two weeks. I scarcely need say that 
this is a most erroneous opinion, and often inter- 
poses between the patient and his recovery. It is 
true, that some who hold the unwarrantable 
opinion alluded to, perseveringly endeavor to 
drink as much in the '' two w^eeks" as they should 
do in six, but this only serves in a common way 
to make them abandon it four or five days before 
their prescribed time, by absolutely disqualifying 
the system for its reception at all. 

I can say, as the result of many years' observa- 
tion, that the White Sulphur, which is one of the 
strongest sulphur waters in the world, rarely 
4* 



42 



MINERAL WATERS IN GENERAL. 



produces its full alterative effects within two 
weeks, under its most judicious administration, 
and under favorable circumstances for its use ; 
and that three, four, five, and even eight weeks 
often elapse before it has displayed its full reme- 
dial powers in obstinate cases. And such will be 
found to be the case with all alterative waters. 

General Bemarhs on the Administration, etc. , etc. 
Mineral waters are all stimulants in a greater or 
less degree, and some have attributed much of 
their virtue to this property. Such an opinion, 
however, is clearly erroneous. I have already 
remarked that such waters are rarely serviceable 
when they keep up any considerable irritation of 
an organ. I now remark, that any considerable 
excitement of the general organism is equally 
prejudicial : indeed I have often been embarrassed, 
and sometimes thwarted in the successful use of 
mineral waters, from the prevalence of this 
quality. The amount of excitement resulting 
from the use of such waters depends upon the 
nature of their constituent principles ; upon the 
quantity taken, the manner of taking it, and the 
excitability of each individual's constitution. If 
it be a water abounding in sulphuretted hydrogen 
gas, the most essential diffsrence exists in taking 
it with or without its gas ; that is, in taking it 
fresh at the spring, or after its gas has flown off. 
In the use of the Sulphur Waters, with or without 
their peculiar gas, the most marked difference 



THEIR ADMINISTRATION. 43 

exists in their stimulating quality, and it is 
greatly advantageous in many cases, particularly 
in very excitable persons, to have the gas expelled 
in part, or in whole, before using them. 

Some mineral waters, by varying the method of 
their administration, or by the interposition of 
appropriate adjuvants, are capable of extensive 
and valuable modified actions and effects upon the 
human body. The White Sulphur is susceptible 
of as many varied, different, and modified actions 
upon the system generally, and upon its particu- 
lar organs, by varying the methods of using it, as 
is mercury, or antimony, or any of our leading 
therapeutical agents. For instance, it can be so 
used as to stimulate distressingly ; or, without any 
aiopreciable stimulating effect. It can be so given 
as almost invariably to purge actively; or, without 
lessening the quantity producing such effect, but 
merely by changing the time and manner of 
taking it, it can be so given as to exert little or 
no cathartic operation. It may be directed to, or 
restrained from, the kldneySj or skin ; and what, 
in a general way, is far more important, it can be 
so used as to lie quietly on the system, producing 
no excessive action upon any of the organs, and, 
with a quiet but sure progress, go on breaking 
up the obstructions in the glandular organs and 
removing the impediments to the proper discharge 
of their functions : equalizing the circulation, re- 
moving chronic inflammations, and generally re- 
storing the energies of the system. 



44 MINERAL WATERS IN GENERAL. 



CHAPTEE II. 

MINERAL WATERS IN GENERAL. 

CONTINUED. 

BesemUance of some Mineral Waters to Mercury — Errors and 
Abuse of Mineral Waters, <&c., &c. — Changing from Spring to 
Spring — Dress — Diet, Exercise, &c. 

Besemhlance to Mercury , etc. — Between the ac- 
tion of mercury J and the more powerful of the 
sulphur waters, on the organic system, the most 
striking similarity exists. Dr. Armstrong long 
since remarked the resemblance between mercury 
and the sulphur waters of Europe, and confidently 
expressed the opinion that the latter are equally 
powerful as the former, in their action upon the 
secretory organs ; and with this very important 
difference, that while the long-continued use of 
mercury, in chronic disease, generally breaks up 
the strength, that of the sulphur waters gener- 
ally renovates the whole system. Mercury has 
heretofore, by common consent, been regarded as 
the most powerful alterative we possess. I am 
not prepared to dispute this high claim of the 
medicine, but this much I will assert, as a matter 
of professional ex:perience, that sulphur water, in 



RESEMBLANCE TO MERCURY, ETC. 45 

mj hands, has proved an alterative quite as cer- 
tain in its effects as mercuryj though somewhat 
slower in its operations. Not only so, I believe it 
to be far better adapted than mercury to a large 
circle of cases, in which glandular obstructions 
and chronic inflammations are to be subdued. If 
the claims of the two remedies for preference were 
otherwise nearly equal, the great advantage on the 
score of safety from the sulphur water would give 
it an immense preference over its rival. Numer- 
ous cases present themselves, however, in which 
they are used in conjunction to great advantage. 
Where this becomes necessary, I have, as a gen- 
eral rule of j)ractice, found it best not to continue 
the mercury longer than six or eight days ; nor is 
it often necessary to use it continually during that 
period. 

The effects of the White Sulphur Water upon 
the human body resemble mercury in several re- 
spects. Not to mention others, its resemblance is 
strikingly manifest from the fact of its producing 
salivation'^ under certain peculiar circumstances. 
Another marked similarity may be mentioned, 
especially as it has a direct bearing upon the 
proper method of its administration : I allude to the 
existence of a phlogistic diathesis in individuals 



* Dr. Salsbuiy, the Kesident Physician at Avon Springs, has 
witnessed similar effects from the Avon water. 



46 MINERAL WATERS IN GENERAL. 

with whom either remedy is used. When the 
system resists the specific action of mercury, it is 
a certain test that the inflammatory diathesis pre- 
vails to a considerable extent, and this is the cause 
of the resistance ; for lessen the inflammatory 
diathesis by proper evacuations, and the specific 
action of the mercury will be readily induced. 
The system often ofi'ers the same resistance to the 
successful use of this water, which is evidently 
occasioned by the excess of the inflammatory 
diathesis, inasmuch as when the inflammatory 
disposition is abated by the lancet, purgatives, 
etc., the water promptly produces its wonted good 
efl'ects. In the administration of this particular 
water, it is of the utmost consequence to keep this 
practical fact constantly in view, and, by proper 
treatment, to keep down both general and local 
excitement. 

Notwithstanding mineral waters are so well 
adapted to the cure of chronic diseases, it should 
not be expected that they will be uniformly suc- 
cessful ; for it must be remembered that such 
diseases are only remediable when unconnected 
with alterations of organic tissue, which is their 
ultimate and mortal product. Nor is it reasonable 
to expect that any plan of treatment will succeed 
in all cases of chronic disease, unconnected with 
alteration of tissue ; and I have accordingly 
found the methods recommended at times inefl*ec- 
tual, even when they were tried under circum- 



ERKORS AND ABUSE. 47 

stances which simply indicated disorder of the 
function, without any concomitant sign of disor- 
ganization. 

Errors and Abuse of Mineral Waters^ etc., etc. — 
I have before alluded to some of the abuses of 
mineral waters by those who resort to them for 
relief; this subject, I conceive, may be still fur- 
ther pursued with, profit to my readers. To one 
familiar with the many errors and mistakes com- 
mitted in the use of mineral waters in this coun- 
try, it will not seem wonderful that numbers 
return from visiting our most celebrated watering 
places, without having received any essential 
benefit, but be rather a matter of surprise that so 
large an amount of good is achieved. The pre- 
cautions in the use of such waters, deemed indis- 
pensable in France, Germany, and England, are 
greatly neglected here. There, the advice of a 
competent physician, who is well acquainted with 
the nature and peculiarities of the water, is 
thought so important, that persons rarely enter 
upon their use without such advice, and, at some 
p)laces, are actually not _^:)ermi7^ec? to do so. If 
similar precautions were more commonly adopted 
by visitors at our various watering places, a far 
larger amount of good would be achieved to the 
afflicted, much injury prevented, and the charac- 
ter of the several waters better established and 
preserved. It is a subject of daily and painful 



48 MINERAL WATERS IN GENERAL. 

observation, at all our principal watering places, 
to witness numerous individuals using mineral 
waters that are not adapted to their cases ; and 
still more common is it to see those, to whose 
cases they are adapted, using them so improperly 
as entirely to prevent the good they would accom- 
plish under a proper administration. Professor 
Mutter, of Philadelphia, makes the following 
judicious remarks when speaking of the use and 
abuse of mineral waters in this country: '^Like 
every other remedy of any efBcacy, mineral waters 
are liable to abuse, and it is really astonishing 
that such glaring errors should be daily com- 
mitted, not only by the patients, but often by the 
physicians who recommend their employment. It 
is by no means an uncommon occurrence (and 
those who have visited the springs of our country 
will bear me out in the statement I am about to 
make,) for an individual to arrive, furnished with 
a ^ carte hlanchCj' from a physician who has probably 
little or no knowledge of the active properties of 
the agent he recommends, to use the water as he 
may see fit, or with merely a charge to ' use it with 
caution.' Others are sent without any direction 
whatever, in the hope that the water may suit 
their condition, and come trusting in Providence 
alone. Others, again, arrive with written in- 
structions to drink so many glasses of the water 
per diem, whether it agrees with them or not. 
Many patients do not take the advice of a physi- 



ERROKS AND ABUSE. 49 

cian at all, but, relying on the representations of 
those who have derived benefit, imagine that they, 
too, will be cured, although, in all probability, 
from the nature of their disease, the water may 
be the most prejudicial to which they could resort. 
Used in this careless and dangerous manner, is it 
to be wondered at, that so many individuals leave 
the springs, either not at all benefited, or in a 
worse condition than when they arrived ? 

The regulations which are thought necessary, 
and which are adopted in most European coun- 
tries, especially France and Germany, during the 
use of a mineral water, are either unknown or 
neglected in this. There, nearly every spring is 
supplied with an experienced physician ; one 
familiar with the character of the water, whose 
duty it is to take charge of the sick as they ar- 
rive ; here, with but one or two exceptions, those 
who frequent our watering places have to rely on 
chance for medical aid. Is this as it should be?" 

A vague impression seems to pervade the public 
mind, that mineral waters, as medicinal agents, 
are totally unlike all other medicines, and that, in 
their administration, there is no necessity for ob- 
serving any cautions, or for adopting extraneous 
expedients to procure the best effects of the agent 
employed. This is an error as injurious as it is 
common, and ought to be corrected in the public 
mind. Our more potent mineral waters ought 
indeed to be regularly incorporated into our mate- 
5 



50 MINERAL WATERS IN GENERAL. 

riamedica, their several qualities properly defined, 
and the medical mind thus instructed to regard 
them, not only as valuable therapeutical agents, 
joer se, hut as agents capable of extensive and val- 
uable modifications in their application to disease. 
A patJiological practice should be established in 
relation to them, not less strict than in relation to 
the ordinary remedies of the shops, and the best 
means of influencing their sanative operations on 
the system understood.. 

The physician Avho desires to throw his patient 
under the alterative influence of mercury, is not 
so discouraged as to abandon the remedy, if it 
chance at flrst to run off by the bowels, and th'us 
thwart his object ; but either by changing the 
method of using his medicine, or by uniting with 
it some soothing astringent, he ultimately effects 
the important object in view. ]N'either should the 
patient be discouraged in the use of a mineral 
water because it occasionally manifests a vagrant 
and improper effect ; for facilities can be com- 
manded to control its operations, as readily as 
we can control the improper operations of mer- 
cury. Such facilities may generally be found, 
either in an increase or diminution of the quantity 
taken — an alteration of the periods at which it has 
been taken — or, in the manner of using it, (where 
gases prevail,) in relation to its gaseous or un- 
gaseous form. Occasionally, medical adjuvants 
are found necessary, and then I have been in the 



LIABILITY TO ERROR. 51 

habit of using those most simplOj and those which 
least derange the animal economy. 

As a general rule, I have found mineral waters 
most serviceable in those cases in which the 
stomach and general system tolerated them 
readily ; yet such toleration depends so much upon 
the proper preparation of the system, and the man- 
ner of using the water, that the patient should by 
no means infer that it is unsuited to his case simply 
because it has manifested some improper operation 
in the commencement. For, as before intimated, 
it will often happen, that by changing the method 
of using the water, or by the administration of 
some appropriate adjuvant, the difficulty will be 
removed, and the agent afterwards act most 
pleasantly and profitably upon the system. 

Liahility to Error in Reference to Sidjohur Waters. 
While on this subject, it is not inopportune, I 
conceive, to allude to a popular and common error 
in reference to the quality of sulphur waters in 
general — an error into which the intelligent as 
Avell as the ignorant are prone to fall, — I allude to 
the very common mistake of forming a judgment 
as to the strength and value of a sulphur water 
merely from its taste and smell. Most persons who 
have not carefully investigated the subject, are 
ready to believe that they have discovered a val- 
uable sulphur fountain when they have found a 
water abounding in sulphuretted gas. This, as a 



52 WHITE SULPHUR SPRINGS. 

general thing, would be a mistake, and, as it is a 
mistake that might lead to a profitless use of such 
waters by invalids, it seems projoer that attention 
should be distinctly called to it. 

I have elsewhere* sufficiently contested the idea 
that sulphuretted hydrogen^ gas ought to be re- 
garded as an efficient medicinal agent, except so 
far as its nervine and stimulant qualities give it 
such claims. I do not now propose to go over the 
arguments for the correctness of this opinion — 
they are sufficiently set forth in the chapter alluded 
to — but merely to enter up this caveat for the bene- 
fit of sulphur water drinkers, — that tlie mere fact 
of water being strongly impregnated with sulpliu^ 
retted gas, is not, of itself, a sufficient evidence that 
it is a valuable remedial agent. 

We often see waters abounding in this gas, and, 
to the taste and smell, very much resembling the 
best of our standard waters, and hence imagined 
by many to be identical in quality and equal in 
strength to them, but which, upon trial, are ascer- 
tained to have but little medicinal value, and are 
found, by analysis, essentially without hody, with 
little efficiency in their medicinal salts ; or, with 
a combination of saline matters not well adapted to 
give them medicinal virtue. 



* Chapter on the " Relative Influence of the Gaseous and Solid 
Contents of the White Sulphur Water." 



LIABILITY TO ERROR. 53 

Neither does the color, nor abundance of de- 
posits, made by such waters, as they flow from 
their source, do more than afford a problematical 
evidence of their value. 

First. Because it is to the quality of the saline 
matters, rather than to their abundance, that we 
are to look for medicinal efficacy ; and. 

Second. Because the color of the natural depos- 
its of all sulphur waters, unmixed with foreign 
bodies, as I have elsewhere said, is always essen- 
tially the same, being invariably white or opake- 
white ; the various shades of blue, gray, red, 
black, etc., being occasioned by the influence of 
light and shade, or being chemical changes, occa- 
sioned by their coming in contact with foreign 
bodies. 

The color of the deposits of such waters, it will 
be seen; then,, cannot to any degree indicate their 
quality or value. A large amount of deposit of 
saline matters, yielded by any mineral water, is 
^ivoMg presumptive evidence of its strength, but is 
not conclusive evidence of its medicinal value, in 
the absence of a knowledge of the peculiar qual- 
ity and combination of such saline matters. Hence 
we should not hastily judge of the value of a min- 
eral water by the color of its deposits, nor even by 
the large araount of its deposits, but by their qual- 
ity, and the proportions in which they are rela- 
tively combined in the water, forming a compound 

5* 



54 WHITE SULPHUR SPRIJv^GS. 

suited to the great mission of modifying and heal- 
ing disease. 

Springs are occasionally found that abound, 
either largely or sparsely, in sulphuretted gas, 
and that contain but little saline salts ; and yet 
such springs are often valuable for particular 
forms or types of disease, and are rendered so from 
the quality and fortunate combination of their 
salts. On the other hand, waters may abound 
largely in saline matters, and some of these saline 
matters be valuable, too, a's single agents, yet the 
entire compound which they form may not be well 
adapted for sanatory and medicinal influences. 

CHANGING FKOM SPRING TO SPRING. 

A very common error, in the use of Mineral 
Waters, is the belief that the patient should often 
change from one water to another, and that no one 
should be used longer than some given number of 
days, and this without any reference to its effects 
upon the system. This absurd notion leads many 
persons to fly from spring to spring, performing 
in a few weeks or days the circuit of the whole 
^^ spring region^'' and without remaining long 
enough at any one to receive permanent benefit. 
Now, if the position heretofore laid down be cor- 
rect, that "mineral waters, like all other med- 
icines, cure disease by exerting effects upon the 
animal economy," the impropriety will be obvious 



CHANGING FROM SPEING TO SPRING. 55 

to all of rapidly hastening from one fountain to 
another, without tarrying long enough at any to 
receive those effects upon the body which are 
.necessary to a cure. Such a water-drinker acts 
like the '^ maid of all works," always busy, but 
accomplishing nothing. 

What would be thought of the physician, who, 
having decided that his patient must undergo the 
influence of alterative action upon his system, and 
having put him upon a course of mercury to 
accomplish the object, should, just before this drug 
would have accomplished the end, discontinue its 
use, and put him upon iodine ; and, just as this 
was about to alterate the system, abandon it and 
substitute sarsaparilla ; and thus, from one drug 
to another, running through the whole routine of 
alterative remedies, without giving any sufficient 
time to effect the object ? This would surely be an 
absurd method of practice ; and yet it would not 
be more absurd than the course we often see pur- 
sued by visitors at mineral springs, — who literally 
waste their whole time in going from fountain to 
fountain, and thus debar themselves of all perma- 
nent good, by spending their time rather among 
the springs, than at any one of them. The state 
of mind which leads invalids thus improperly to 
act, is often induced from the random opinions or 
injudicious advice of their fellow sufferers, whom 
they meet with at the various Avatering places. 
One will tell another that they have seen or heard 



56 MINERAL AYATERS IN GENERAL. 

of some person that was cured at once, at this, 
that, or the other spring. Among the Virginia 
Springs for instance, you will be assured by one, 
that the ^' White " is the place ; by another, that 
the '^ Salt " is better suited to your case ; a third 
informs you that you would do better at the 
^^Blue;" while others will tell you there is 
nothing like the '' Eed," the ''Sweet," tlie 
^' Warm," the ''Hot." Thus are the minds of 
persons frequently perplexed, until they come to 
the conclusion to "make the rounds" and try 
them all for a day or two. In this way the hap- 
less invalid is often led to fritter away the whole 
time he remains in the mountains, without 
deriving permanent advantage from '^ all the 
sjoy^ngs," when, very probably, the time he had 
fruitlessly spent at them all would have been 
sufficient to have cured him at any one of them. 

Let it be distinctly understood that these remarks 
are meant for the serious invalid only. Persons 
who visit the springs for amusement or pleasure, or 
those who go merely as a relaxation from business, 
and require only the tone which travel and moun- 
tain air can give, may, with great propriety, go 
from spring to spring, and spend their time just 
where they are the happiest. But for the invalid 
ivho has something for the loatei^s to do, it is not so ; he 
should first wisely determine which of the springs 
is best calculated to cure his disease, and having 
settled this important question, should jpersevere 



CHANGING FROM SPRING TO SPRING. 57 

in the use of that particular water ; carefully 
watching its effects, and ^'not be carried about by 
every wind of doctrine/' but continue the use of the 
agent thus wisely selected, either until its inap- 
plicability has been proven, or until it produces 
the specific effects which he desires. This being 
accomplished, there may be, and often is, a neces- 
sity for visiting other springs,* 

DKESS, 

Delicate persons, visiting the mountains or colder 
latitudes for health, should be particularly cautious 
on the subject of dress. It is rather more easy to 
dress with the ever varying fashions, than to dress 
appropriately for all the tueather that happens in 
mountainous regions generally, during the water- 
ing seasons. The weather, in such situations, is 
often so variable and uncertain as to make it a 
good general rule for the invalid to dress without 
reference to any particular state of it, but always 
warm and comfortable, with (in most cases) but 
little change from his dress in the spring season 
before he reached the mountains. 

Some invalids will be benefited by constantly 
wearing soft fl.annel next the skin, not only because 
it keeps up a more uniform temperature than 



* See chap, iii., on " Prescribing Mineral Waters." 



58 MINERAL WATERS IN GENERAL. 

linen, but also because of the gentle excitement it 
occasions on the surface of the body. The best 
summer dress, however, which I have ever seen 
worn next the body, — and always a valuable ac- 
companiment of flannel, winter and summer, — is 
woven silk. I am led to believe, from experience, 
that silk, worn next the skin, is the very best 
protection we can command against the influence 
of cold. In rheumatism and neuralgia, a covering 
of Avoven silk is a valuable remedy; and for all 
delicate persons^ and for those peculiarly susceptible 
to colds, it is a most invaluable shield to the body. 
The superiority of silk over every other covering 
is probably owing to its peculiarity as a non-con- 
ductor of electricity ; but whether this be so or 
not, is left to the astute medical philosopher to 
determine ; it is sufficient for me to know the fact 
of its superior efficacy, without stopping to account 
for it. 

Since the above paragraph was first written, I 
have had ten years additional observation of the 
use of silk as a covering for delicate and suscepti- 
ble persons ; and the result is, that I am more 
than ever convinced of its great superiority. In- 
deed, such persons, while in our variable climate, 
and under the influence of suphur waters^ that 
increase the susceptibility of the system, cannot, 
by any other dress, so effectually secure themselves 
against the encroachment of cold, as by the use of 
silk sacks worn next the skin. Nor ought this pre- 



DRESSj DIET, EXERCISE, ETC. 59 

caution to be neglected by such, especially as the 
existence of a cold always renders the use of the 
waters less efficacious, and sometimes positively 
injurious, for the time it may continue. 

DIET, EXERCISE, ETC. 

Diet and exercise, during the use of mineral 
water, are of too much importance to be passed 
over without notice. It is to be regretted that so 
little as relates to diet is placed within the power 
of the invalid at our watering places generally. 
Usually there is but one general system of living 
at all such places, and this invariably a system 
very illy adapted to the invalid. 

Persons using mineral water may ordinarily 
indulge, in moderation, in that diet which they 
found to agree best with them at home. Impru- 
dences as to the kind of food, or of excess in its 
quantity, should be as carefully avoided by the 
invalid while using such water, as when under 
treatment by other medical means. This, how- 
ever, is by no means commonly the case. 

Mineral waters generally remove acidity from 
the stomach, and sharpen both the appetite and the 
digestion ; he ace it is often really difHcult for the 
invalid to restrain himself at table, and we might 
be astonished to see the quantity and quality of 
food he sometimes consumes. Dyspeptics, as might 
be expectedj suffer most from impropriety in diet: 



60 MINERAL WATERS IN GENERAL. 

indeed, I am persuaded that more than half the 
good these waters would otherwise achieve in such 
caseSj is prevented by impropriety in diet. But 
the evil of over and improper feeding, although 
most manifest in dyspeptics, is by no means con- 
fined to such. Upon the subject of diet, Dr. Bell 
has well observed, that ^^ slow and laborious diges- 
tion, heartburn, disordered kidneys, discoloration 
of the skin, and some affections of the liver, often 
the effects of excessive eating and drinking alone, 
are not to be readily cured by visiting mineral 
springs, and keeping up the same kind of living." 
If they (and the remark applies to all invalids) 
be sincerely desirous of gaining health, they will 
most successfully do so by simplifying their re- 
gimen, and abstaining from all those appliances 
to force appetite and tickle the taste, which they had 
formerly used in the shape of ardent spirits, wine, 
and malt liquors, fried meats, pastry, and unripe 
fruits. In fine, we may sum up in a few words, 
by repeating, after the great father of medicine, 
that all excesses are dangerous ; a maxim every one 
must have fully tested. 

Eating much in the evening, sitting up late, 
prolonged and immoderate dancing, remaining 
too long in the cool air of the evening, are often 
the cause of many unpleasant complaints, which 
might have been easily prevented. 

The passions are to be kept in check by avoiding 
every exciting cause, either of the boisterous or 



DIETj EXERCISE, ETC. 61 

melanclioly kind. A giddy chase after pleasure 
and luxurious indulgence, are scarcely more rep- 
rehensible than an indolent and secluded life. 
The kind and amount of exercise to he indulged 
in by the pati-ent must, of course, be regulated by 
the nature of his disease and the attendant cir- 
cumstances ; walking, riding on horseback or in 
a carriage, may be selected, as one or the other 
may be best adapted to the physical ability, and 
to the inclinations of the patient ; but, in some 
form or other, all whose strength will admit of it 
should take regular exercise in good weather. 



62 



MINERAL WATERS IN GENERAL. 



CHAPTEK III. 

USE OF MEDICINES AND DIFFEEENT 
MINERAL WATERS. 

PresciiUng Mineral Waters. 

The judicious administration of mild and appro- 
priate medicines, in connection with the use of 
mineral waters, with the ohject of facilitating their 
operations upon the system, is often a matter of 
primary importance. 

All writers who treat of mineral waters as medi- 
cinal agentSj urge upon invalids the propriety of 
obtaining experienced medical advice before com- 
mencing their use, and allude to the occasional 
necessity of using medicines in connection with 
them in obstinate cases. But the circumstances 
under which medicines should be used, and the 
primary necessity of the practice in particular 
cases, has not always been as fully insisted on as 
the merits of such practice demand. This, we 
suppose, has been owing rather to the positions 
occupied by the various authors on mineral waters, 
than to any want on their part of a proper appre- 
ciation of the subject. A portion of such authors, 
although learned and scientific men, and highly 
distinguished in their profession, have not, never- 



USE OF MEDICINES. 63 

theless, had a large actual experience in the 
treatment of disease at mineral fountainSj and 
with mineral waters. Hence the teachings of 
such have, very properly, heen designed to show 
the value and adaptation of such agents as inde- 
pendent remedies, rather than as important adju- 
vants in particular cases ; consequently they have 
treated of them in a somewhat isolated sense, and 
as they would have treated of any single article 
of the materia medica. The few who have written 
upon the suhject, whose residence at mineral 
fountains has afforded enlarged opportunities for 
investigating the peculiar effects of the waters in 
individual and diversified cases, may, to some 
extent, have heen restrained^ hy motives of deli- 
cacy, from enlarging upon this suhject as fully as 
they should have done. Such authors, being set- 
tled as practitioners at the fountains of which they 
write, may not unnaturally have felt, that for 
them to urge upon the invalid visitor the necessity 
of medical advice and assistance, however im- 
portant they might esteem it, and with however 
much of candor and disinterestedness they might 
do so, would possibly subject them to invidious 
reflections by the illiberal, or even from the dis- 
creet stranger, who, not fully appreciating the 
importance of the subject, might misapprehend 
their well-meant motives. 

Many persons are disposed to regard mineral 
waters, in their curative powers, as a panacea. 



64 USE OF MEDICINES AND 

and^ like the mucli-extolled catliolicons of the 
day, unaided by other appliances, and in despite 
of scientific directions and all the rules of art, 
adapted to cure all manner of diseases. I need 
scarcel}'- say that such opinions, when entertained, 
are very erroneous, and that the judgment which 
regards them as important remedies in nature s 
materia medica, having, indeed, a wide and valu- 
able scope of operation, but, like alhother remedies, 
necessarily demanding various modifications and 
cautions in their use, would be far more correct 
and reliable. 

Many consecutive years of experience, in the 
administration of mineral waters, have given me 
great confidence in their employment ; indeed, I 
yield to no one in admiration of their happy adap- 
tation for many ills to which flesh is heir. As in- 
dependent remedies, totally disconnected with all 
other medicinal aid, they are often fully sufficient 
to attain the sanative end desired. So, too, we 
occasionally find a single article of the materia 
medica, unaided by other articles, capable of pro- 
ducing every beneficial effect that the case de- 
mands. Doubtless, like results occasionally take 
place from the employment of the various panaceas 
or catliolicons of the age. But where we meet 
with one case in which a single article of the ma- 
teria medica, or an artificial panacea, unaided by 
all other means, satisfactorily fulfills all indica- 
tions of treatment in chronic disease, and results 



OF DIFFEKENT MINERAL WATERS. 65 

in effecting a cure, we meet with perhaps ten 
cases in which adjunctive remedies should be em- 
ployed. Be this as it may, however, in reference 
to the remedies just alluded to, we know it to he 
true of alterative mineral waters, not only as to 
the certainty J hul especially as to the celerity, with 
which they effect cures in obstinate cases. This 
view of the subject is not only consonant with 
reason, but also with the general theories and 
teachings of the profession. 

There is an opposite view of the subject, how- 
ever, which alleges that any medical agent, 
adapted to the case, is sufficient of itself for the 
case, and should therefore stand unassisted by any 
other means. This theory, it will be perceived, 
leads necessarily into empiricism, and to the dis- 
carding of all science and discrimination in the 
use of remedies ; and, consequently, ignores the 
value of all knowledge and experience in the pro- 
fession. 

Now, I admit that if the selected agent be so 
fully and entirely adapted as really to fill every 
indiccction in the case, then the proposition I am 
combating is true, — and under such circumstances 
every judicious physician would say, let it alone. 
But such full and complete adaptations are but 
occasionally found to exist, either in medicines or 
mineral waters ; and, in the use of the latter, 
even under ordinary happy adaptations, we often 
find a state of things that primarily existed, or 
6* 



66 USB OF MEDICINES AND 

has been superadded, that must be remedied by 
appropriate medicineSj or the water, so far from 
proving beneficial^ will act injuriously. Besides, 
admitting the mineral Avater to be never so well 
adapted to the case in which it is being used, its 
slow progress in resolving congestions and in 
overcoming diseased action, may, in many cases, 
be greatly facilitated by judicious adjuvants, skill- 
fully and timeously administered. 

In obstinate cases in v/hich it is desirable to pro- 
cure the specific operations of a mineral water 
upon any organ, much time, to say the least, is 
saved by uniting with the water, for a few days, 
some adjuvant that specifically determines to such 
organ. By such a procedure, the water may be 
invited to the organ, and establish its action upon 
it much sooner than it would without such aid. 

In diseases of the abdominal viscera generally, 
the patient may often economize a week or more 
of the time, which otherwise it would be necessary 
for him to use the water, by the proper introduc- 
tion of some medical adjunct to the end that has 
been intimated. Tire milder mercurials^ in con- 
nection with some of the vegetable purgatives, 
often answer exceedingly well in such cases. 

The proportion of invalids, especially of such 
as are suffering with biliary derangements, that 
will derive increased benefit from the employment 
of mild alterative cathartics, to precede or accom- 
pany the use of alterative mineral waters, is as 



' OF DIFFERENT MINERAL WATERS. 6'7 

ten to one at least ; andj in nine cases out of ten, 
the subject of biliary derangements will economize 
a week or ten days, in the necessary use of such 
waters, by the occasional use of medicines. 

Dr. John Bell, whom we always quote with 
pleasure, because of the profound thought he 
bestows upon any subject upon which he writes, 
remarks, that ''it frequently happens that an 
invalid, whose state would be at first aggravated 
by drinking from a mineral spring, if nothing is 
premised, will, after the use of some active medi- 
cine, such as a few medicinal purges, and, if 
arterial action be somcAvhat considerable, the 
abstraction of some blood, be enabled to com- 
mence taking the waters, and persevere in their 
use with decided advantage." In other cases 
remedies of different kinds are recommended to 
second their action, and to be employed with 
them. Hoffman lavished the greatest eulogiums 
on milk with mineral waters. In the treatment 
of scrofula, Theophilus Bordeu obtained signal 
benefit by the union of mercurial frictions with 
the use of the waters of Bereges. But these, and 
other combinations, and alterations of treatment, 
can only be confidently recommended by physi- 
cians always residing at the springs, and inti- 
mately acquainted with all their shades of action 
and operation. The general rule, which may 
with safety be laid dovv^n for the guidance of those 
about to use mineral waters, is to have their 



1 



68 USE or MEDICINES AND 

primce vice well cleansed of faacal and mucous 
collections^ and to bring down, as near as may 
be, the circulation to a natural standard. 

A medical rule, in attempting the cure of 
disease, is -to subdue inordinate and evident dis- 
turbance of the system before w^e administer 
medicines with a view to their peculiar effect. 
Thus, vs^hen the stomach and bowels are highly 
irritable, or inflamed, we decline administering 
purgatives ; when there is acute pain in the head, 
with high fever^ we withhold opium and other 
remedies, of what are termed the class of ano- 
dynes ; when the liver is acutely inflamed, we are 
w^ary in giving anti-bilious medicines, so called. 
Violent and regularly recurring chills do not 
justify the use of the barks, if the interval be 
marked by symptoms of high action of the 
blood-vessel system generally, or of great de- 
termination to the head, liver, or stomach. All 
these several states of violent disease are to be 
mitigated, at first, by bleeding, either general, as 
from the arm, or local, as by cups and leeches, to 
the head, over the stomach, etc.; also, by simple 
cool diluents, or watery drinks, cool air, and, 
under appropriate circumstances, the cold bath. 
Without preliminary treatment, purgatives would, 
so far from carrying off matters oppressive to the 
stomach and bowels, and promoting secretions 
from their inner surfaces, only serve still further 
to irritate and inflame these parts ; opiates would 



or DIFFERENT BIINERAL WATERS. 69 

increase the pain in the head and restlessness , and 
even cause delirium ; hark would convert the 
remittent into more of a continual fever, and 
increase the distress of the stomach, and exas- 
perate the prior existing pain in the liver. 

From these and other analogous facts, we learn 
the important truth, overlooked hy the puhlic 
generally, and sneered at by impudent quacks, 
that the operations and remedial effects of any 
one medicine, or comhination of medicines, are 
purely relative, and depend on the state of the animal 
economy at the time. These views should he care- 
fully borne in mind, as well in the administration 
of mineral waters as of the ordinary remedies of 
the apothecary's shop. 

I desire not to be misunderstood, however, as 
expressing the opinion that medicines are always 
necessary^ in ordinary cases submitted to the use 
of mineral waters. 

When the powers of the water are sufficient to 
answer, with tolerable certainty and celerity, the 
sanative indications, it is safe, and generally 
proper, to withhold medical means altogether ; 
or, if occasionally any should be demanded, to 
employ such only as are mild and suasive in their 
character. 

PRESCRIBING MINT:RAL WATERS. 

The medical adviser at all our popular watering 
places has, necessarily, very delicate and respon- 



70 PRESCRIBINa MINERAL AYATEES. 

sible duties devolved upon liim. To some extent 
he must be the recipient, in a professional point 
of view, of the confidence of the invalid stranger 
who has left a distant home, to seek at medicinal 
fountains the best remedy for the maladies of 
which he hopes to J)e relieved. This confidence, 
while it is agreeable to the honorable mind, is not 
without onerous responsibility. 

A sufficient knowledge of our various mineral 
springs, to enable the medical adviser to judge 
correctly of their specific character and adapta- 
tions, unfolds at once to him a wide field for the 
exercise of skill and judgment, in selecting for 
his patient the one best adapted to the nature and 
wants of his case. 

In the Virginia Spring region, for instance, we 
are surrounded by a perfect galaxy of mineral 
fountains, of almost every variety and adaptation. 
We have the Sulphur waters, in their various 
modifications ; we have the Ohalyheates, simple 
and compound, in great variety ; the Saline, in 
several varieties ; the Aluminous^ or acidulated 
aluminous chalybeates, in three or four varieties ; 
and thermal waters of every temperature, from 
62° to 106°. All these fountains of healing, with 
their varied modified influences, (for each one 
difi'ers in some essential particulars from all the 
others,) should be regarded as so many difi'erent 
articles in nature's materia meclica ; each pos- 
sessing adaptations somewhat peculiar to itself, 



PRESCRIBING MINERAL WATERS. 71 

for tlie diiFerent diseases or states of tlie system. 
Here, then, is a wide range for the medical 
adviser, and his tact and success, in advising most 
wisely, will necessarily depend upon his acquaint- 
ance with the peculiar qualities and specific effects 
of all these different agents. 

Again, such an adviser, to he most useful to his 
patients, must he careful not to he influenced hy his 
loco per sonce, or to regard the particular fountain 
over whose medical direction he presides, as a 
catliolicon, and adapted better than any other to all 
sorts and conditions of cases. A medical adviser, 
at a mineral fountain, could not well fall into a 
greater error, or more clearly evidence a want of 
wise discrimination, than in finding his remedy, 
in all cases, in the particular agent which he 
immediately directs ; for, in the nature of things, 
such universal preference would often he mis- 
placed. Standing in the delicate relation which 
such an adviser holds to the invalid public, he 
must regard the various mineral agencies around 
him somewhat in the same light in which he 
regards the various medicines of the apothecary's 
shop, and should Vr^isely and freely choose among 
them for the use and benefit of his patients. 
Any other course would be empirical, — hazardous 
to the best interest of the unfortunate invalid, and 
utterly unworthy of bis confidence. 

Under such proper and discriminating advice, 
the patient will often, perhaps, in a majority of 



"72 PRESCRIBING MINERAL WATERS. 

cases, be led in the course of his cure to the use of 
several of the different fountains. The same 
water, however potent it may be, is not always, nor 
even generally, sufficient to meet all the indica- 
tions that exist in the case, and, unaided, to 
produce a perfect cure. There is nothing more 
common than the certainty with which a particular 
water accomplishes particular results upon the 
animal economy, while it fails to accomplish other 
results that will be readily achieved by other and 
dissimilar waters. For instance, while the waters 
of the White Sulphur Springs are well adapted to 
produce alterative effects upon the secretory 
organs, and, by their general emulging and 
changing influences, to bring the system into a 
natural or physiological type, — actions and in- 
fluences that are primary in their importance, and 
essential to a cure ; this being accomplished, some 
of the more tonic and nervine waters will be found 
far better adapted to strengthen the animal fibre, 
and to complete the cure. 

So other potent waters, through the whole 
catalogue of springs have each their sphere of 
usefulness, that must not be overlooked by the 
discriminating adviser in the treatment of par- 
ticular cases ; and hence they all should be 
arrayed and labeled, as it were, in nature's grea^ 
laboratory, and prescribed intelligently, and as 
their use is indicated in the variety of diseases that 
are sought to be healed by such agents. 



VIRaiNIA SPRINGS. Y3 



CHAPTER IV. 

VIRGINIA SPRINGS. 

In treating of the Springs of Virginia, I shall 
not be guided by their chemical classification, nor 
strictly by their medicinal importance, but in 
accordance with their location in the geographical 
divisions of the State. 

The Springs strictly pertaining to what has long 
been known as the ^' Sirring Begion," will be first 
noticed ; — next, those located in or contiguous to 
the great ShenandoaJi Valley, formed by the Apa- 
lachian chain of mountains on the West, and the 
Blue Ridge Mountain on the East. Then will 
follow those found on the eastern slopes of the Blue 
Ridge and in the plane country stretching towards 
the ocean, known as Eastern Virginia. Lastly, 
those located in the Western part of the Great 
Valley and in the Southwestern counties of the 
State. 

The entire series of Virginia Springs presents 
great variety in chemical and therapeutic charac- 
ter. It comprises various and differently com- 
pounded sulphur waters ; the cJialyheates simple 
and compounded ; the acidulous or carbonated-; the 
saline ; the aluminated cJialyheates — with thermal 
7 



74 VIRGINIA SPRINGS. 

waters^ varying in temperaturej from 62 to 106 
degrees of Fahrenheit. 

Of these Springs^ the sulphurous waters are 
found in greater abundance and in greater strength 
immediately on the Western and Eastern slopes of 
the Alleghany Mountains, the strongest being on 
its Western declension. The simple chalyheates are 
found in every great section of thecommonwealthj 
but in greatest strength along the course of the 
great Apalachian range, extending from the 
Northeastern to the Southwestern extremities of 
the State. 

The acidulous or carbonated waters, as well as 
the aluminated clialyheates , exist in the greatest 
variety and strength in the central portions of the 
Great Yalley, in the counties of Augusta, Rock- 
bridge, Alleghany, Monroe and Craig, but are 
found in several other counties, South and West, 
along the course of the Alleghany and Blue 
Ridge Mountains. W^aters more or less distinctly 
belonging to the saline class are found in the same 
range of country. 

The most abundant mineral waters in the State, 
except the simple chalybeate, are the aluminated 
chalybeates or alum waters as they are commonly 
called in Virginia. They are found in numerous 
localities in a district of country extending 
through the State ISTorth and South for more than 
two hundred miles. They are generally found 
adjacent to faults in the strata, or where the rocks 



EOUTES TO THE PRINCIPAL . VIE GINI A SPRINGS. 75 

give evidence of derangement from their natural 
position, and near the junction of staley slate Avith 
limestone. They are invariably, I believe, an 
infiltration through talcose slate which lies a few 
feet below the surface in large districts of the 
mountain ranges alluded to. I have examined 
numerous specimens of these waters, obtained 
from various neighborhoods, from the headwaters 
of the Shenandoah river to the extreme South- 
western border of the State, and have found them 
to possess the leading chemical characteristics of 
the springs of this class that have been brought 
into popular use. 

I believe that all the mineral waters in this 
great range of disturbance, are slightly thermal, 
compared with the temperature of the common 
springs in their vicinity. But the boundary of 
the thermal ivaters, commonly so called, is only 
about fifty miles in length and of narrow dimen- 
sion, having the Hot and Warm Springs for its 
Northern, and the Sweet Chalybeate and Sweet 
Springs for its Southern extremes. 

ROUTES TO THE PRINCIPAL VIRGINIA SPRINGS. 

The results of the war between the Northern 
and Southern States, just ended, so materially 
deranged traveling facilities to many of the 
Virginia Springs as to make the following 
directions essential to distant parties who desire to 
visit them. 



76 ROUTES TO THE PRINCIPAL VIRGINIA SPRINGS. 

The traveler to any of the principal Springs in 
the mountains of Virginia, either from the Norths 
East or West, to avail themselves most largely of 
railroad facilities, must necessarily make Staunton 
a point in their journey. 

From Staunton, the Rockhridge and Bath Alum, 
the Warm, Hot, Healing, White Sulphur, Salt, and 
Bed Sulphur Springs, are conveniently reached by 
railroad, with small amount of staging, and in the 
order in which they are here set down. The 
Sioeet and Bed Sweet are on the same general 
route, and are reached by a detour of seventeen 
miles from the White Sulphur. 

The Yelloiv, the Montgomery White, the Alle- 
ghany, Coiners, and Blue Bidge Springs, are reached 
by the traveler going East on the Virginia & 
Tennessee Kailroad in the order in which they are 
here enumerated. 



WHITE SULPHUR SPRINGS. 77 



CHAPTEE V. 

WHITE SULPHUR SPRINGS. 

Location and General Pliysiml C haractenstics — Its Strength uni- 
formly the same — Does not lose its Strength hy parting ucith its Gas 
— Does not Deposit its Salts when Quiescent — Its Gas fatal to 
Fish — Its Early History — Known to the Indians as a " Medicine 
Water'' — First used by the Whites in 1778 — Progress of ImproTe- 
ments and Present Condition — Ancdyses of Mr. Hayes and Pro- 
Rogers. 



The White Sulphur Springs are located in the 
County of Greenbrier, West Virginia, on Howard's 
Creek, and on the immediate confines of the 
^^ Great Western Valley,'' heing but six miles 
west of the Alleghany chain of mountains, which 
separates the waters that flow into the Chesapeake 
Bay from those which run into the Gulf of Mexico. 

The waters of the spring find their way into 
Howard's Creek two hundred yards from their 
source, w^hich, after flowing flve miles, empty into 
Greenbrier River. 

The spring is situated on an elevated and beauti- 
fully picturesque valley, hemmed in by mountains 
on every side. Kate's Mountain, celebrated as the 
theatre of the exploits of a chivalrous heroine in 
the days of Indian troubles, is in full view, and 



78 WHITE SULPHUR SPRINGS. 

about two miles to the south; to the west, and 
distant from one to two miles, are the Greenbrier 
Mountains ; while the towering Alleghany^ in all 
its grandeur, is found six miles to the north and 
east. 

The spring is in the midst of the celebrated 
'^Spring Kegion,'' having the ^' Hot Spring" 
thirty-five miles to the north; the "Sweet," 
seventeen miles to the east; the "Salt," and 
" Ked," the one twenty-four, the other forty-one 
miles, to the south ; and the "Blue," twenty- two 
miles to the west. Its latitude is about 37^° north, 
and its longitude 3|° west from Washington. Its 
elevation above tide-water is two thousand feet. 
It bursts with unusual boldness from rock-lined 
apertures, and is inclosed by marble casements 
five feet square and three and a half feet deep. 
Its temperature is 62° of Fahrenheit, and remains 
uniformly the same during the winter's blasts and 
the summer's heat ; any apparent variation from 
this temperature will be found, I think, to be owing 
to the difference in thermometers, as repeated 
trials with the same instrument proved the tem- 
perature to be uniform. 

The principal spring yields about thirty gallons 
per minute ; and it is a remarkable fact that this 
quantity is not perceptibly increased or diminished 
during the longest spells of wet or dry weather ; 
while other bold springs of the country have failed 
during the long droughts of summer, this has 



PHYSICAL CIIAEACTERISTICS. 79 

invariably observed '^ the even tenor of its way." 
There is no discoloration of the water during long 
wet spells, or other evidences that it becomes 
blended with common water percolating through 
the earth. The quantity and temperature of 
this spring being uniform under all circum- 
stances, gives a confidence, which experience in 
its use has verified, of its uniform strength and 
efficiency. The water is most clear and trans- 
parent, and deposits copiously,, as it flows over a 
rough and uneven surface, aivhite, and sometimes, 
under peculiar circumstances, a red and black, 
precipitate, composed in part of its saline ingre- 
dients. Its taste and smell, fresh at the sj^ring, 
are that of all waters strongly impregnated with 
sulphuretted hydrogen gas. When removed from 
the spring, and kept in an open vessel for a suffi- 
cient length of time for this gas to escape, or, when 
it has been heated or frozen for this purpose, it 
becomes essentially tasteless and inodorous, and 
could scarcely be distinguished, either by smell 
or taste, from common limestone water. Its 
cathartic activity, however, is rather increased 
than diminised when thus insipid and inodorous.* 
It does not lose its transparency by parting with 
its gas, as many other waters do ; nor does it 
deposit its salts in the slightest degree when 



* See chap, v., on ^'TJie relatke virtues of the saline and gaseous 
contents of the White Sulphur water ^ 



1 



80 . WHITE SULPHUR SPRINGS. 

quiescentj not even sufficiently to stain a glass 
vessel in which it may be kept. 

The gas of this spring is speedily fatal to all 
animals, when immersed even for a very short time 
in its waters. Small fish thus circumstanced sur- 
vive but a few moments, first manifesting entire 
derangement, with great distress, and uniformly 
die in less than three minutes. 

The water is uniform in its saline strength ; that 
is, it contains in a given quantity, at all seasons, 
the same amount of solid contents. Of this fact 
I am fully satisfied, from repeated tests and ex- 
aminations of it, under various circumstances, 
and for man}^ years. It exhibits occasional and 
slight variations in the amount of its free sulphu- 
retted hydrogen gas. This variation is occasioned 
mainly, if not entirely, by the condition of the 
atmosphere at the time — and, principally, by its 
electrical condition. Even this variation in the 
water, however, is more apparent than real, and 
is often suspected when it does not actually exist. 

In the absence of chemical tests, the difference 
in the water is judged of entirely by taste and 
smell, principally by the latter ; and some condi- 
tions of the atmosphere being more favorable than 
others for the evolution and diffusion of the gas, 
the actual relative amount in evolution is often 
misjudged. 

We occasionally hear old visitors to the springs, 
express the opinion, that the water is not as strong 



EARLY HISTORY. 81 

as it was years "before, when tliey had visited it; 
and this opinion they entertain, not because of 
any difference in its operative effects , but because 
of its appearing less strong to the smell. Its 
sulphur flavor, they allege, is neither so strong 
about the grounds, or at the spring, as it formerly 
was. This is no doubt true in every condition of 
the atmosphere, and yet the water and the gases 
are essentially the same. Formerly, and until 
the last few years, a portion of the ground, for 
several rods below the spring, was a marsh of wet 
loam, covered with grass, into which the sulphur 
water flowed, and saturating the earth, became 
decomposed with the vegetable matter, and con- 
sequently emitted a strong sulphurous odor, that 
could be detected in warm weather in any part of 
the grounds. Happily, these marshy grounds have 
been carefully ditched and drained, and the water 
in its exit from the spring, being now confined to 
a narrow channel, rapidly flows away, thereby 
relieving from any sulphurous odor occasioned by 
its decomposition. 

The springs are surrounded with mountain scenery 
of great beauty, and blessed with a most delightful 
climate in summer and fall. Independent of the 
benefit that may be derived from the waters^ a 
better situation for the invalid during the summer 
months can scarcely be imagined. They have the 
advantage of a salubrious and invigorating air 
and an agreeable temperature — cool at morning 



82 WHITE SULPHUR SPEINGS. 

and evening, tlie thermometer ranging at those 
periods during the summer, between 50° and 60°, 
and rarely attaining a greater height than 80° at 
any time of the day — with an elasticity in the 
atmosphere that prevents the heat from being at 
any time oppressive, and enabling the invalid to 
take exercise in the open air during the day, 
without fatigue. 

There is but little in the early history of this 
watering place especially worthy of preservation. 

Tradition says that the charming valley, in 
which it is situated, was once a favorite ^^liunting- 
ground" of the proud Shaivanees, who then owned 
and occupied this fair region, and the numerous 
ancient graves and rude implements of the chase, 
that are found in various parts of the valley, suffi- 
ciently attest the truth of this legend. That a 
small marsh, originally contiguous to the spring, 
was once a favorite deer and buffalo ^' lick," is 
well known to the oldest white settlers in the 
country ; and it is confidently asserted by some of 
that venerable class, that the spring was known 
to the Indians as a ^^ medicine water/' and that 
since their migration across the Ohio, they have 
occasionally been known to visit it for the relief of 
rheumatic affections. Whether this legend be 
truth or fiction, I cannot avouch ; authentic history, 
however, abundantly testifies to the reluctance 
with Avhich its ancient oAvners abandoned this 
lovely valley to the rapacious avarice of the 
invading white man. 



EARLY HISTORY. 83 

During the year 1774, tlie proud but ill-fated 
SliawaneeSj being overpowered by tlie encroaching 
colonists from Eastern Virginia, and having 
sustained, in October of that year^ a signal defeat 
by the colonial troops, at Point Pleasant, were 
forced finally to abandon their country, and seek 
shelter and protection with the main body of their 
tribe, then living on the waters of the great 
Scioto ; not, however, until, by frequent battles 
and midnight murders, they had testified their 
attachment to their ancient hunting-grounds and 
the graves of their fathers. 

The property on which this spring is situated 
was originally patented to Nathan Carpenter, one 
of the earliest pioneers of the country, who was 
subsequently killed by a band of marauding 
Indians, at a fort at the mouth of Dunlap's Creek, 
near where the town of Covington now stands. 

The precise time at which this spring, now so 
celebrated among mineral Avaters, was first used 
for the cure of disease, cannot be ascertained with 
absolute certainty. It is believed, however, that 
a Mrs. Anderson, the wife of one of the oldest 
settlers, was the first white person who tested its 
virtues as a medicine. 

In 1778, this lady, being afflicted with rheuma- 
tism, was borne on a litter, from her residence, 
ten or fifteen miles, to the spring, where a tent was 
spread for her protection from the weather ; and a 
'^ bathing tub " provided, by felling and excavating 



84. WHITE SULPHUR SPRINGS. 

a huge tree that grew hard by. Here she 
remained until she entirely recoveredj drinking 
from the fountain, and bathing in the water 
previously heated in the trough by '^hot rocks. '* 
It is reasonable to suppose that the fame of this 
cure spread abroad among the '^ settlers," and 
from them into Eastern Yirginia, and among the 
few '^ spring-going folks," who then annually 
visited the Sweet Springs, not many miles distant. 
Accordingly, in 1779, and from that to 1783, there 
were annually a few visitors here, who spread 
their tents near the spring, no house having then 
been erected, and with the rude ^^ trough " for a 
bathing tub, and this protection from the weather, 
are reported to have spent their time most 
agreeably and profitably. Some of these primi- 
tive visitors, ^^ who dwelt in tents," have visited 
the sj)rings of late years, and, with pleasurable 
emotions, marked out the sj)ot where their tents 
stood some sixty years ago, while they recounted 
with delight the amusements and pleasures they 
then enjoyed. 

In 1784, 1785, and 1786, numerous ^' log- 
cabins " were erected, not where any of the 
present buildings stand, but immediately around 
the spring, not one of which, or the materials 
which composed it, is now remaining. 

Mr. Caldwell, until recently, the proprietor of 
the property, came into possession of it in the 
year 1808^ but did not personally undertake its 



ANALYSIS. 85 

improvement until the summer of 1818. Before 
this period, the huilding for the accommodation 
of visitors, although suflScient for the number 
that then resorted to the place, were exceedingly 
rude, heinf]i: altoo;ether small wooden huts. The 
interest and enterprise of the owner soon led him 
into a different and more appropriate system of 
improvement, and from small beginnings, he 
went on, progressing in the rapid ratio of demand, 
until from the ^' tent " accommodations in 1779, 
and the ^^log-cabins'* in 1784, the place now, 
both in elegance and extent, exhibits the appear- 
ance of a neat and flourishing village, affording 
comfortable and convenient accommodations, 
(including the surrounding hotels,) for two 
thousand persons."^ 

ANALYSIS. 

In the winter of 1842, Mr. Augustus A. Hayes, 
of Massachusetts, made an analysis of the White 
Sulphur water, at his laboratory in Roxbury, from 

* In the spring of 1857, the White Sulphur property was sold 
to a company of gentlemen residing principally in Virginia, 
who (in virtue of an act of the Legislature) have associated 
themselves into a Joint-stock company, under the name of the 
" White Sulpliur Springs CompanyT The energy and puhlic 
spirit of the individuals Avho compose the Company, give 
abundant evidence to the numerous friends of the property, that 
nothing that taste or enterprise can effect, in its extension and 
adornment, will be overlooked or long delayed. The Compauy 
has already erected the largest building in the Southern countiy. 



86 WHITE SULPHUR SPRINGS. 

a few bottles of water forwarded to him from the 

spring in the preceding fall. The following is 

the result of his examinations : — 

^^ Compared with pure water free from air, its 

specific gravity is 1 -00254. 

^^50^000 grains (about seven pints) of this water 

contain, in solution, 3 '633 water grain measures 

of gaseous matter, or about 1"14 of its volume, 

consisting of — 

Mtrogen gas 1"013 

Oxygen gas -108 

Carbonic acid 3'444 

Hydro-sulphuric acid , -68 

3-633 
^' One gallon, or 237 cubic inches of the water 
contain 16 739-1000 cubic inches of gas, having 
the proportion of — 

Nitrogen gas 4-680 

Oxygen gas - -498 

Carbonic acid — 11-290 

Hydro-sulpliuric acid 271 

16-739 
^'50,000 grains of this water contain 115 735-1000 
grains of saline matter, consisting of — 

its dimensions 'beingfour Jmndred feet long, by a corresponding 
width, and covering an acre of ground. This immense structure 
is of brick; and is appropriated for receiving -rooms, dining- 
room, hall-room, x)arlors, lodging -rooins, etc., etc. They have also 
built numerous Cottages, for families. With these improvements, 
together with a new and capacious Bathing establisliment, and the 
removal of many of the old buildings to new localities, by which 
the Lawns are enlarged and adorned, the property, alike in 
capacity, in convenience, and in the elegance of its arrange- 
ments, exhibits a new and generally improved appearance. 



ANALYSIS. 87 

Sulphate of lime 67-168 

Sulphate of magnesia 30-364 

Chloride of magnesium • -859 

Carbonate of lime 6-060 

Organic matter (dried at 212° F.)- 3740 

Carbonic acid 4-584 

Silicates (silica 1-34, potash -18, soda -66, magnesia 
and a trace of oxyd. iron) 2-960 

115-735 
^^ Unlike saline sulphuretted waters generally, 
this water contains a minute propartion of chlorine 
only, the sulphates of lime and magnesia forming 
nearly ten-elevenths of the saline matter. 

" The alkaline bases are also in very small pro- 
portion, and seem to be united to the silicious 
earths, in combination with a peculiar organic 
matter. The organic matter, in its j)hysical and 
chemical character, resembles that found in the 
water of the Eed Sulphur Springs, and differs 
essentially from the organic matter of some ther- 
mal waters. 

^^In ascertaining its weight, it was rendered 
dry at the temperature of 212° F. When dry, it 
is a grayish- white, translucent solid. When 
recently separated from a fluid containing it, it 
appears as a thin jelly or mucilage, and gives to 
a large bulk of fluid a mucouslike appearance, 
with the property of frothing by agitation. It 
unites with metallic oxydes and forms compounds 
both soluble and insoluble. In most cases an 
excess of base renders the compound insoluble. 
The compound with oxyde of silver is soluble in 



1 



88 WHITE SULPHUR SPRINaS. 

water ; with, baryta and lime it does not form a 
precipitate, while magnesia forms with it a 
hydrous white, gelatinous mass. In acids it dis- 
solves ; the oxy-acids do not change its composi- 
tion, while they are diluted and cold ; by boiling 
they produce sulphuric acid from its constituent 
sulphur, and change its carbon to other forms. 
In contact ^with earthy sulphates at a moderate 
temperature, it produces hydro-sulphuric acid, 
and to this source that acid contained in the water 
may he traced. This substance does not rapidly 
attract oxygen from the atmosphere^ and from 
colored compounds, as some other organic com- 
pounds do. The proportion of organic matter, 
like that usually contained in our waters, is in this 
water very small ; until forty-nine fiftieths of the 
bulk of a quantity is evaporated, the residual 
matter does not become colored, and, when the 
saline residue is dried, it is of a pale yellow. 

^^The medicinal properties of this water are 
probably due to the action of this organic sub- 
stance. The hydro-sulphuric acid, resulting from 
its natural action, is one of the most active sub- 
stances within the reach of physicians, and there 
are chemical reasons for supposing tJiat, after the 
luater has reached the stomach, similar changes, 
accompanied hy the product of hydro-sulphuric acid, 
take place. '^ 

* See chap, v., on " Tlie relative mrtues of the saline and gaseous 
contents of the White Sulphur icater.'^ 



ANALYSIS. 89 

*^ Sabs tail ces, having characters similar to those 
J)res8iitecl by this matter, have been classed with 
the lower order of living plants. With such 
matters, this substance does not belong, in the 
state in which it is found in the water, for it 
there forms compounds, the result of chemical 
affinities, wholly incompatible with vital action. 
In its altered state, produced by atmospheric 
agencies, it may nourish plants and develop the 
growth of seeds fitted to such a soil as its elements 
form." 

Professor William B. Rogers has also analyzed 
this water. The following is the result of his 
examinations : 

Solid matter, procured by evaporation from 100 
cubic inches of White Sulphur water, weighed, 
after being dried at 212°, 65-54: grains. 

Quantity of each solid ingredient in 100 cubic 
inches, estimated as perfectly free from water : 

Sulphate of lime 31-680 grains. 

Sulphate of magnesia 8-241 " 

Sulphate of soda 4-050 " 

Carbonate of lime 1-530 " 

Carbonate of magnesia 0-506 " 

Chloride of magnesium 0-071 " 

Chloride of calcium 0-010 " 

Chloride of sodium 0-226 

Proto-sulphate of iron 0-089 " 

Sulphate of aluminge 0-012 " 

Earthy phosphates — a trace " 

Azotized organic matter blended with a large 

proportion of sulphur, about 5 " 

Iodine, combined with sodium or magnesium. 
8* 



90 WHITE SULPHUR SPRINGS. 

Yolume of eacli of tlie gases in a free state, con- 
tained in 100 cubic inches : * 

Sulphuretted hydrogen 0*66 to 1*30 cubic inches. 

Nitrogen 1-88 

Oxygen 0-19 

Carbonic acid 3-67 



* 100 cubic inches amounts to about 3i pints. 



SALINE AND GASEOUS CONTENTS. 91 



CHAPTEK YI. 

THE EELATIVE YIKTUES OF THE SALINE AND 

GASEOUS CONTENTS OF THE WHITE 

SULPHUR WATER. 

Speculation has existed as to the relative effi- 
cacy of the different component parts of the White 
Sulphur water in the cure of disease, and while 
some have supposed that its gaseous contents are 
essential to its sanative virtues, others, and I 
think the best informed observers, attribute its 
medicinal virtues mainly to its solid or saline con- 
tents. To the latter opinion the able Professor of 
Natural Philosophy in the University of Virginia, 
who has carefully examined the water, and other 
distinguished chemists and physicians, decidedly 
incline. 

It certainly is a question of interest to the vale- 
tudinarian, whether he should use this water fresh 
as it flows from the spring, abounding in all its 
stimulating gas, or whether he should use it after 
it has partially or entirely parted with this gas. 
To this subject I have, for the last several years, 
devoted particular attention, having instituted, 
with care, various and diversified experiments, in 



92 WHITE SULPHUR SPRINGS. 

order to establish something like definite and 
positive conclusions. 

Although the value of this water in what is 
usually termed its non-stimulating form ^ or in other 
words, when deprived of its gas, has long been 
known to many who are familiar with its use^ it 
was not until the last few years that it was com- 
monly used from choice, after it had been long 
removed from the spring, or from any cause, had 
parted with its gaseous contents ; and an opinion, 
the correctness of w^hich had never been examined, 
prevailed in the minds of many, that in losing its 
gas, it lost its strength and efficacy. 

Having settled at the ^' White," as the resident 
physician of the place, it became alike my duty 
and my interest to investigate the character and 
operations of its waters under every possible form 
and modification in which they could be presented. 
In the pursuit of this duty, I resolved to take no 
opinion upon '^ trust," but carefully to examine 
and investigate for myself A prominent question 
immediately presented itself for inquiry, involving 
the relative merits Avhich the solid and gaseous 
ingredients of tlie water possess- as remedial 
agents. It would be tedious, and, to many, unin- 
teresting, to detail the several steps and multiplied 
experiments which led me to conclusions upon the 
subject, satisfactory to my own mind, and upon 
which I have established certain practical prin- 
ciples in the use of the water , which have enabled 



SALINE AND GASEOUS CONTENTS. 93 

me to prescribe it, especially for nervous and 
excitable patients, with far greater success than 
heretofore. It is sufficient for my purpose at 
present to state, that, while I freely admit that 
the gas, which abounds in the water, is an active 
nervine stimulant^ and therefore may be a most 
jDotent agent in some cases, we are, nevertheless, 
to look mainly to the solid contents of the water 
for its alterative power, as well as for its activity 
manifested through the emunctories of the body. 

Whether the ef&cacy of the solid contents be 
owing to the specific character of any one, or to 
all of the thirteen different salts of which it is com- 
posed, and which exist in the water in the most 
minute form of subdivision, and in this condition 
enter the circulation, and course through the 
whole system, applying themselves to the diseased 
tissues ; or, whether its efficacy to some extent, 
depends upon the evolution of sulphuretted hydro- 
gen gas, after the ivater has reached tJie stomach, is 
a matter of curious inquiry. 

The distinguished chemist, Mr. Hayes, of Eox- 
bury, after having bestowed much pains in ana- 
lyzing the water, and in studying its peculiar 
character, comes to the following conclusions as to 
the source of its medicinal power. After describing, 
at considerable length, a certain matter which he 
found to abound in it, and which he terms ^^ or- 
ganic matter,'' in the course of which he says, 
*"' it differs essentially from the organic matter of 



94 WHITE SULPHUR SPRINGS. 

some thermal waters/' he proceeds to say : ^^ In 
contact Avith earthy sulphates j at a moderate tem- 
peraturCj it produces hydro-sulphuric acid, and to 
this source that acid contained in the water may he 
traced. This substance does not rapidly attract 
oxygen from the atmosphere, and from colored 
compounds, as some other organic compounds do ; 
the medicmcd properties of this water are probably 
due to the action of this organic substance. The 
hydro-sulphuric acid, resulting from its natural 
action, is one of the most active substances within 
the reach of physicians. There are chemical rea- 
sons for supposing that, after the vjater has reached 
the stomach, similar changes, accompanied by the 
production of hydro-sidphuric acid, take place.' '"^ 

Before Mr. Hayes had communicated the above 
opinion, growing out of his chemical examina- 
tions, I had again and again been much interested 
with certain phenomena which I have termed the 
secondary formation of gas in the YV'hite Bnlphur 
water. Instances had frequently been reported to 
me of the water having been put into bottles after 
it had lost its gas entirely, being void both of taste 
and smell, and yet, after these bottles were kept 
for some days in a warm situation, and then 
opened, the water appeared equally strong of the 
hydro-sulphuric acid, as it is found to be, fresh at 
the fountain. 

*See Hayes's Analysis, cliapter iv. 



SALIXE AXD GASEOUS CONTEXTS. 95 

In a shipment of this water to Calcutta, some 
years since, the ^' Transporting Company " had 
the water bottled in Boston, from barrels that had 
been filled at the spring six months before. The 
water, although tasteless and inodorous, when put 
into the bottles at Boston, was found, on its arrival 
at Calcutta, so strongly impregnated with the 
hydro-sulphuric acid as to render it necessary, 
under the direction of an intelligent gentleman 
of Boston, (who had witnessed this secondary 
formation of gas before,) to uncork the bottles for 
some time before using, that the excess of gas 
might escape. 

I had, also, known that in the process of tliaiv- 
ing sulphur water, that had been previously 
frozen, sulphuretted hydrogen gas is evolved ; for 
although the ice has neither the taste nor smell 
of sulphur, a strong smell of sulphuretted hydro- 
gen is manifest as the ice is returning to water. 

I had often observed that individuals who drank 
the water entirely stale and void alike of taste and 
smell, were as liable to have eructations of sul- 
johuretted hydrogen as those who drank it fresh at 
the fountain. These, and other facts connected 
witb the peculiar operations and effects of the 
water, when used in its ungaseous form — opera- 
tions and efi'ects which it is not necessary here to 
refer to, but all going to prove the secondary for- 
mation of gas under certain circumstances — had, 
in my investigations of this water, interested me 



96 WHITE SULPHUR SPRINas". 

exceedingly, atid, consequently, I was not a little 
pleased that Mr. Hayes's chemical examinations 
so fully sustained the opinions I had been led to 
entertain from my personal observation. 

This opinion of Mr. Hayes, in connection with 
the numerous proofs derived from analogy and 
observation, of the secondary formation of sul- 
phuretted hydrogen gas in the water, would seem 
to be calculated to harmonize the opinion advanced 
by me of the equal efficacy of the water when 
deprived of its gas, with the sentiment entertained 
by some, that the hydrogen gas is essential to its 
sanative operations. 

The phenomena of a secondary formation of sul- 
phuretted hydrogen gas in mineral waters has not, 
that I am aware of, been noticed before ; it cer- 
tainly has not been in relation to the White 
Sulphur, and we hope that medical gentlemen, 
generally, who may have occasion to use such 
waters, vfill direct attention to this singular fact. 
For myself, I promise still further to investigate 
the subject, and may, at some subsequent period, 
lay the results of my investigations before the 
medical public. 

My investigations of the relative virtues of the 
gaseous and saline contents of this water, have 
satisfied me that the physician, in making up his 
judgment as to the best method of administering 
it in particular cases, may always properly moot 
the propriety of using it fresh as it flows from 



SALINE AND GASEOUS CONTENTS. 97 

the spring, depi^ived of its gas, or with modified 
quantities. He should bear in mind that there 
are cases in which it is preferable that the water 
should be used stale and that, by depriving it in 
loliole or in part of its gas, he can graduate that 
amount of stimulus to the system, which it may 
demand, and this, inmost cases, without lessening 
the actively operative or alterative effects of the 
water. 

For some patients, the White Sulphur, as it 
flows from the spring, is too stimidating , and hence, 
before the non-stimulating method of using it was 
introduced, many such patients left the spring, 
either without giving the water a trial, or actually 
rendered worse by its stimulating influence. This 
class of persons can now use the water iclien de- 
prived of its gas, not only with impunity, but often 
with the happiest results. Numerous cures, 
effected by its use in the last ten or fifteen years, 
have been in that class of patients by whom the 
water, fresh at the Sp>ring, could not have been 
used without injury. The cases of Mr. Morton, 
of Mississippi, and J. L. Jernagan, Esq., reported 
at large in a j)amphlet published in 1841, are 
pertinent examples of such cases. 

In cases of nervous persons, and especially in 
those whose hrain is prone to undue excitement, I 
have often, found it necessary^ either by freezing 
or heating the water, to throw off its gas com- 
pletely, before it could be tolerated by the system ; 

9 



98 WHITE SULPHUR SPRINGS. 

and some of the happiest results I have ever 
witnessed from the nse of the water have been 
achieved by it after being thus prepm^ed. The 
cases of Mrs. H., of Georgia, and of Mr. B., of 
Massachusetts,* the one afflicted with disease of 
the stomach and chest, the other with chronic 
inflammation of the brain, are instances, among 
scores of others that might be referred to. But 
this is not all. With the view of guarding 
effectually against errors that might arise from a 
defect in my own observations, I procured the 
assistance of several physicians, and other intel- 
ligent gentlemen, all of whom were familiar with 
the operations and effects of the water when drunk 
fresh at the spring, and who, with the view of 
testing the facts I have mentioned, used it them- 
selves, and gave it to others, after it had been long 
removed from the spring^ and with the same results 
that they had previously experienced in their own 
persons, or witnessed in others, from like quan- 
tities of the fresh water abounding in its gas. 

My object in prescribing White Sulphur has 
been to pursue a discriminating or pathological 
practice. I regard it as an active and potent 
medicine, and believe that, like all such niedicines, 
it should be used with a wise reference to the 
nature of the case, and the state of the system. 
I must not he understood as advancing the opinioUj 

"^Reported at large in a pamplilet published in 1841. 



SALINE AND GASEOUS CONTENTS. 99 

that this icattr is ahcays to he preferred after the 
escajje of its gas. I entertain no such opinion ; 
on the contrary, for a large class of visitors. I 
think it preferable that they should avail them- 
selves of the use of the water either at, or recently 
removed from the fountain, and as it naturally 
abounds in its gases. There are other cases in 
which the exciting influence of the gas can only 
be borne in a more limited degree, and_, for such, I 
permit its partial escape before using it, while in 
a numerous class of cases, (and especially on first 
commencing the use of the water,) I esteem it 
indispensable to its quick and beneficial operation, 
that its uncomhinedgas, which gives taste and smell , 
should have escaped. 

In recommending the White Sulphur, then, to 
the use of the invalid,! esteem it quite as necessary 
to investigate the manner of using, as relates to its 
fresh or stale quality, as it is in reference to its 
dose, or the times of administering it ; and for 
neither would I lay dovrn positive and absolute 
rules in advance ; for each case must, in the nature 
of things, give rules for its own government.* 

* It is now more than twenty-five years since the antlior first 
called public attention to the importance, indeed, the absolute 
necessity, in many cases, of the inyalid's using this water in its 
ungaseous or least stimulating form. 

Like aU innovations upon old opinions and customs,, it met 
with its hasty objectors, at first, but actual experience was not 
long in establishing the soundness and value of the recom- 



100 WHITE SULPHUR SPRINGS. 

The great value of tliis water, as a therapeutical 
agent, to a large class of persons who visit the 
fountain, is a fact alike unquestioned and unques- 
tionable. That in its natural condition, as it flows 
from the bosom of the earth, it is happily adapted 
to numerous cases of disease, is a truth established 
by upwards of sixty years' experience, as well as 
fully sustained by the numerous cures that are 
constantly occurring. The great value of the 
Avater, then, fresh as it flows from the spring, and 
abounding in its ,gas, is a truth, so far as I know, 
that is unassailed, and which, I believe, is unas- 
sailable. Nevertheless, that there are many cases 
in which the gas is not beneficial, in the amount in 
which it exists in the fresh water, is a fact which 
my experience enables me to assert with the ut- 
most confidence. That the water, in such cases, 
therefore, is better without its gas than with it, 
follows as effect follows cause. But I do not teach 
that the water, per se, and without reference to 
cases, should always be preferred without its gas. 
I base not my practice upon any such narrow and 
exclusive views; nor do I deny the value of the 
agency of the gas in appropriate cases. 



menclation, and now we have the gratificatian to know that it 
is regarded by all well-informed persons as a fixed principle in 
the use of the water, that, to he iised safely and most beneficially, 
in very many cases, it must be used with strict reference to its 
fresh or stale quality ; or, in other words, to its stimulating bi 
non-stimulating effects. 



SALIXE AND GASEOUS CONTENTS. 101 

I, then, regard the solid contents of the White 
Sulphur water, either in its direct or indirect in- 
fluences, as the main agency in its medicinal 
efficacy. Whether the efficacy of the salts of the 
water be owing to their absorption into the system 
as such, or whether it depends upon the secondary 
formation of hydro-sulphuric acid gas in the 
stomach, or whether it ought to be ascribed to the 
combination of these different agencies, I leave for 
others more fond of speculation to decide. I have, 
heretofore, been satisfied with the hioidedge of the 
efficacy of the solid contents, without much theo- 
rizing to explain the ichy and lolierefore. 

But, it may be asked, if the gas does good in the 
state of a secondary formation in the stomacli, 
would not a larger quantity, taken with the fresh 
water, do more good ? I reply, that this by no 
means follows in that class of cases for which I 
specially advise the ungaseous water ; for my only 
objection to the fresh water, in such cases^ is, that 
it has too much gas. Admitting that the gas may 
exert an influence, I allege that in nervous and 
excitable cases the quantity is not only better 
adapted to the system, but that any given 
quantity, under a secondary formation, excites the 
system less, from its gradual formation in the 
stomach, than if suddenly received in volume into 
that viscus. 

ISTor do I, because I recommend the ungaseous 
water in particular cases, repudiate and disallow 

9* 



102 WHITE SULPHUR SPRINGS. 

all medicinal agency of the gas, as a general 
principle ? Not at all. I simply contend tliat, 
for the treatment of certain cases, there i^ more of the 
stimulating gas in the fresh water than such cases 
can bear with advantage, and that its excessive 
excitation in such cases would he prejudicial 
instead of beneficial. 

But do I find it necessary to gnard the amount 
of gas for every water .drinker ? or in effect to 
erect a bed of Procrustes, and oblige every one to 
conform to its length ? By no means. A. arrives 
at the springs, not much debilitated by disease, 
and with a firm, nervous, and muscular system ; 
there is no excessive excitability in his case, and 
neither his cerebral, nervous, nor vascular system 
is particularly prone to be affected by stimulants 
or exciting medicines. I advise him to use the 
water as it floios from the fountain, and if he 
shonld, contrary to expectation, find that it stimu- 
lates him unpleasantly, to set it by for a short 
time before using. 

B. calls for advice as to the manner of using the 
water ; his temjjeramerit, and the state of his 
cerebral, nervous, and vascular system is the 
opposite of A.'s ; his physical energies have been 
prostrated by disease ; his nerves are unstrung, 
and, like his brain, prone to be painfully affected 
by stimulants or exciting medicines. He is 
advised to use the water after it has, either 
partially or entirely, parted with its gas ; that is, 



SALINE AND GASEOUS CONTENTS. 103 

after it lias been set by for twelve or eighteen hoicrs, 
as the delicacy and excitability of his system 
demand. 

In cases of inflammation of the parencliyma of 
the brain, and in other highly excitable conditions 
of the cerebral or nervous system, I have the 
water more carefully prepared, either by heating 
or freezing it. I have a case at this time under 
treatment, in the person of Mrs. F., in which 
there is such an extreme susceptibility of the brain, 
that absolute derangement, for several hours, was 
the consequence, in several instances, of taking 
two glasses of the water fresh from the spring ; 
although she bears with impunity, and is 
improving rapidly, under prepared water. 

In graduating the amount of stimulus, or, if 
the gaseous theorist please, the amount of medical 
m.aterial to the wants of the system — in other 
words, varying the prescription to suit the case — am 
I departing fr,om a scientific and approved system 
of practice? What would be thought of the 
science of a medical man, who invariably used 
either the same medicine, or the same dose of any 
medicine, without regard to the peculiarities or 
constitution of his patients ? Just what ouglit to 
be thought of me, or any one, who would direct 
so potent an agent as White Sulphur water to be 
used alike in every variety of constitution and 
disease. 

A popular error, in relation to mineral waters^ 



104 WHITE SULPHUR SPRINGS. 

is that they exert a sort of mysterious influence on 
the system ; and that, as nature has elaborated 
them in the bowels of the earth, they are, there- 
fore, formed in the best possible manner for the 
cure of disease. This opinion is not more 
reasonable than it would be to suppose that nature 
has formed antimony in the best possible form, for 
the cure of disease, although we know that in 
this form, under the administration of the cele- 
brated Basil Valentine, it slew all the monks in his 
cloister. 

Like all other remedial agents, potent mineral 
waters produce certain effects upon the animal 
economy, and these effects will be beneficial or 
injurious, as the remedy is pro|)erly or improperly 
employed. For instance, C, who is nervous, 
delicate, and excitable, and is affected with 
functional derangement of the organs, requires to 
receive, for a certain time, the influence of a 
mineral water, which, while it acts as an aperient 
upon his bowels, enters his circulation, courses 
through his system, and alterates his deranged 
organs ; being, at the same time, so bland and 
unstimulating in its general effects, as not to 
arouse any one, or a series of organs into undue 
excitement and rebellion against the common 
good. Such a remedy is found in the stale and 
uiigaseous White Sulphur water. 

D. requires the very same effects to be exerted 
upon his diseased organs, — but he is of very 



SALINE AND GASEOUS CONTENTS. 105 

different temperament and constitution. His 
brain and nerves are prone to no unnatural excite- 
ment^ and he is unaffected with the thousand 
physical sensibilities to which C. is subject. D. 
may take the White Sulphur water with impunity 
and advantage, in any manner most agreeable to 
him. In his case its exciting gas constitutes no 
objection to its use. The good effects of the water, 
so differently used by C. and D., will be the same, 
because the difference in their cases makes the 
difference in the use of the remedy. 



106 WHITE SULPHUR SPRINGS. 



CHAPTER Til. 

GEISHERAL DIRECTIONS FOR THE USE OF THE 
WHITE SULPHUR WATER. 

Directions meant to he General^ not Specific — Must not Generally 
look to the Sensible Operations of the Water f(rr its lest Effects — 
Moderate or Small Quantities Generally Prefer alle — The best 
Times for taking it — Length of Time for ichich it should be Used 
— Necessary Preparations of the System for the Use of the Water 
— Sensible Medicinal Effects of the Water — Effects on the Pulse — 
Synopsis of Bides to he Observed — Use of Baths. 

Much that might have been said under this 
headj has been anticipated in the chapter on 
'^mineral waters in general." 

Ifc is scarcely necessary to remark^ after all that 
has heretofore been said of the necessity of using 
Mineral Waters with strict reference to the nature 
of the disease in lohich they are employed, that it is 
not designed that the directions, herein given, 
shall be considered sufficient to guide in the use 
of the White Sulphur in all cases, or in any diffi- 
cult and important case, to the exclusion of the 
more minute and specific directions which such 
case may demand. It is my intention rather to 
indicate the general rides, which ordinarily must 
be observed in its administration, than to lay 



GENERAL DIRECTIONS. . 107 

down definite directions which shall apply to all 
cases. 

Every one who is familiar with the various 
types of disease, and with the peculiarities and 
radical difference in different constitutions and 
temperaments, modifying and influencing dis- 
eased action, will at once be satisfied of the 
impossibility of laying down any absolute rule, 
for the use of a potent mineral water, that should 
be strictly adhered to in all cases. Each case^ to 
a certain extent, must, with this, as with all 
other medicinal agents, indicate the proper dose, 
and the proper manner of administration. 

As has been already remarked, it is very com- 
mon to attribute the beneficial effects of mineral 
waters to their immediate sensible and obvious 
effects upon the human body. I have shown this 
opinion to be erroneous — that, so far from it being 
true that such waters uniformly manifest their 
beneficial effects by their active operations, such 
operations frequently delay, or entirely prevent, 
the good which they otherwise would have accom- 
plished through the medium of their alterative 
effects. 

Those who desire 'to obtain the alterative opera- 
tions of the water, must, as a general rule, take it 
in small quantities, and continue its use for such 
length of time as will be sufficient, in common 
spring parlance, to ^^ saturate the system." Pa- 
tients thus using the water are apt, however, to 



108 WHITE SULPHUR SPRINGS. 

become restless and dissatisfied for the first few 
days ; so mucli so, that it is often difficult to 
reconcile them to this manner of administration ; 
because, say they, ^^it is doing me no good;" 
they wish to see such tokens of activity as are 
given by prompt and vigorous purgation. In a 
general way, it is preferable that the water act 
sufficiently on the bowels, even when given in 
reference to its alterative effects, to obviate the 
necessity of giving any other medicine for that 
purpose; but it is often better to use some mild 
purgative from the shops, to effect this object for 
the first few days, than that the quantity of water 
should be greatly increased. 

Comparatively but few strangers, who visit the 
White Sulphur, are aware of the potency of its 
waters, and, under the false impression that no 
harm will arise from any quantity the stomach 
will bear, many are induced to use them in quan- 
tities that not only defeat their sanative effects, 
but do much positive injury. 

I have just remarked that it is often difficult to 
reconcile patients to the use of small and inop- 
erative quantities of this water. Many such 
instances come under my observation, and some in 
which painful experience alone could control. A 
prominent case of this kind occurred in my prac- 
tice several years since, in the person of Mr. C. 
He was under treatment for a complicated stomach 
and neuralgic affection, and had used the water 



GENERAL DIRECTIONS. 109 

twelve days-, in small doses, with good effect; lie 
was lodging at one of the adjoining hotels, and, 
believing that he was doing well, I did not see 
him for two or three days, and then casually met 
with him. I was astonished to find him greatly 
changed for the Avorse. His appetite, before good, 
had almost entirely ceased ; his system was irri- 
table and feverish ; could not sleep at night ; and 
in every respect was sensibly worse ; had begun 
to despair, and proposed leaving for home, as he 
was ^^ satisfied the Avater was not agreeing with 
him." I accused him of impropriety in diet, or 
of other imprudences, but he satisfied me that he 
had followed my directions in all such things, but 
that he had so far varied from my advice in the 
use of the water, as to take sixteen instead of six 
glasses daily, for the last few days. I advised 
this gentleman, as I would all others who have 
comanitted a similar ''debauch" on cold water, 
to discontinue its use entirely for a time, and then 
return to the use of it in rational doses. This 
plan was pursued by him^ and with the happiest 
results. 

The opinion is as common as it is erroneous, 
among those who visit mineral waters, that they 
are to be benefited in proportion to the quantity 
they drink. Persons in health, or not debilitated 
by disease, do sometimes indulge in enormously 
large and long-continued potations of such waters, 
with apparent impunity ; but it by no means fol- 
io 



110 WHITE SULPIICJR SPRINGS. 

lows that those whose stomachs are enervated by 
disease, and whose general health is much en- 
feebled, can indulge the habit with equal safety. 
In such stomachs the effects of inordinate disten- 
tion are ^Iways painful and injurious, while the 
sudden diminution of the temperature, from large 
quantities of cold fluid suddenly thrown into the 
system, can scarcely fail to prove injurious. 

I sometimes meet with another class of visitors, 
who err just as much on the opposite extreme ; 
they arrive at the springs, and place themselves 
under the government of a recipe for the use of 
the water, drawn up, most commonly, by some 
distant medical adviser, who has never himself 
had an opportunity of observing its effects ; and 
such not unfrequently take this aquo^ medicinalis 
in literally broken doses ; — in quantities altogether 
insufficient to produce any sanative effect. 

• 

PERIODS FOR THE USE OF THE WATER, ETC. 

The proper time for using the water is in the 
morning before breakfast, when the stomach is 
empty, and the absorbent vessels most active. It 
may generally be used to advantage an hour or 
two before dinner, and before going to bed at 
night. 

In many cases it is best that the whole that is 
taken in the course of the day, be divided into two 
parts, and taken, either in the morning before 



GENERAL DIRECTIONS. Ill 

breakfast, and a sLort time before dinner ; or in 
tbe morning J and a short time before going to 
bed at niglit. 

Advantage is very seldom secured from tbe 
water being taken before supper, and often it is 
prejudicial from its proneness to run off by tbe 
kidneys. Observation leads me to believe tbat, 
as a general rule, the water taken before hreakfastj 
and before going to bed at niglit , is most serviceable 
to a majority of invalids ; though there are some 
who cannot very well bear it at night, and attention 
should always be paid to this circumstance. 

It should not be used immediately before or 
after a meal ; nor should glass after glass ordi- 
narily be taken in rapid succession. By this rej^re- 
hensible practice the stomach is overtasked, and, 
immediately, unpleasant consequences result, such 
as eructations J giddiness, unpleasant excitation , and 
a painful sense of fullness, and sometimes a perma- 
nent injury of the stomach with atonic dyspepsia. 
Such a course also disposes the water to run off 
hastily by the kidneys — an operation for which it 
has naturally a strong tendency, and which often 
embarrasses in its administration. 



LENGTH OF TIME TO USE THE WATER. 

The length of time the invalid should continue 
the use of the water^ depends entirely upon the 



112 WHITE SULPHUR SPRINGS. 

• 

nature of the case — the manner in wliich it has 
heen used, and the susceptibilities of the system. 
Most erroneous notions exist in a large portion 
of the public mind upon this subject. Many 
believe that it will exert all its good iniluenceSj 
or, as they say, will ^^ saturate the system," in 
eight or ten days ; others allow it tvvo, three, and 
four weeks, to effect the same object. Now, the 
truth is that the time in which the ultimate good 
effects of the w^ater are accomplished, always 
depends, as before remarked, upon circumstances 
— upon the nature of the case, the manner in which 
it has heen used, and upon the susceptibilities of the 
system. Some persons will be thrown as fully 
under its influence in two weeks as others w^ill 
be in four ; and yet it may be equally well 
adapted to each case. In every case of its admin- 
istration, respect should rather be had to the 
effects it is producing than to the time it has been 
used. It never cures diseases until it has first 
produced certain effects upon the animal economy, 
— EFFECTS which Can always be distinguished by 
the practiced observer during the progress of their 
operation, with the same certainty with which we 
can distinguish the effects under the alterative 
operation of mercury. 

It often happens that persons, to whose cases 
the water is well adapted, use it assiduously for 
three or four weeks^ without deriving a particle of 
permanent benefit ; and all in consequence of so 



GENERAL DIEECTIOXS. 113 

improperl}' using it, both in time and quantity^ as 
to forcG it out of the system by the emunctories, 
without ^^ touching the case," — without being 
permitted to tarry long enough to produce any of 
those salutary effects v^hioli must precede a cure. 

It cannotj therefore, be too earnestly urged 
upon those who are using the water for any 
obstinate disease, to have their attention fixed upon 
the effects which it is producing, or has produced, 
rather than upon a given number of days, in 
which they may have been taught to believe their 
systems would become changed or '^ saturated." 

Dr. Armstrong found that from six to tivelve 
iveeks were often required for Harrowgate and 
Dinsdale waters to produce their full curative 
effects ; and I occasionally see similar time re- 
quired for the development of the full effects of 
this water. In some cases, however, where the 
system was previously well prepared, and the 
subsequent management judicious, the White 
Sulphur will produce its alterative operations in 
about two weeks. Such cases, however, are rare, 
and it ivill generally he found that from three to six 
loeeks, or even longer, must elapse under its use, 
before those " jjrofound changes'' are wrought 
which precede and insure a return to health. 
These remarks, as far as they relate to time, are 
applicable to all our mineral waters .that cure 
disease in virtue of their alterative action ; for, if 

10- 



114 WHITE SULPHUR SPB.mGS. 

they be true as to tlie Harroivgate f^ one of tlie 
strongest sulpliur waters in the world, and of the 
White Sulphur, scarcely, if at all, inferior in 
strength, to that celebrated European spring, they 



*Th8 Earrowgate and WMte Sulphur loaters differ very 
materially. The author visited and spent some time at Har- 
rowgate in 1851, and expresses the opinion, as the result of his 
personal observations and inquiries at the springs, that the 
Harrowgate Sulphur waters, while they are stronger than the 
White Sulphur in some of the salts common to both, are never- 
theless inferior to the latter in alterative potency and efficacy. 

There are no less X]mB. fourteen different wells at Harrowgate, 
all of which are more or less resorted to on account of their 
medical properties. Six of them are impregnated with 
sulphuretted hydrogen ; five of them are pure chalybeates ; one 
is a saline chalybeate; and two may be considered as simply 
saline, since they contain little iron and are destitute of 
sulphuretted hydrogen. 

The Old Sulphur well, the strongest of this class of waters at 
Harrowgate, is beautifully transparent and sparkling ; of the 
temperature of 49°, supposed to be the mean temperature of 
that part of Yorkshire. By analysis, it is found to contain in 
an imperial gallon — 

Chloride of sodium 867-0 grains. 

Chloride of calcium..... 87-0 " 

Chloride of magnesium. , 42-5 " 

Bi-carbonate of soda 20*0 " 

1016-5 

Sulp, hydrogen gas 15-64 cub. in. 

Carbonic acid gas 2-72 " 

Carburetted hydrogen gas 6-80 " 

Azotic gas 8-84 " 

34-00 



GENERAL DIRECTIONS. 115 

cannot be less true of waters of the same class, 
but inferior in point of strength. 

When sulphurous waters are prescribed^ their 
operations should be narrowly watched, and if 
they produce untoward and unpleasant symptoms, 
such as headache, gastric distress, furred tongue, 
quick and irritable pulse, with costive bowels and 
loss of appetite, they should be temporarily or 
permanently discontinued, as circumstances may 
demand. The temporary discontinuance of the 
water, under the circumstances just supposed, and 
the use of a brisk cathartic, or the lancet, if the 
state of the blood-vessels demand it, will generally 
enable us to return to its use in a day or two with 
safety and success. 

PREPARATION FOR THE USE OF THE WATER. 

Some preparation of the system, preceding the 
use of the water, is often, though not always, 
necessary for its safe and advantageous adminis- 
tration. Most persons,, after the excitement usual 
to the travel in visiting the springs, will be 
profited by taking some gentle purgative, and by 
the use of a light and cooling diet for a day or 
two before^lhe water is freely used. Those in 
feeble health should commence the water with, 
caution, and generally in its least stimtdating form, 
that is, after it has remained in an open vessel* 
until its gas has escaped. If, with these precau- 



116 WHITE SULPHUR SPRINGS. 

tions, it fail to exert its desired effects, or produce 
unpleasant symptoms, the medical adviser, to 
whom it would be necessary to resort in such an 
emergency, would, of course, prescribe according 
to circumstances ; nor can any general rule be 
given as respects the treatment that "would be 
necessary in such a case, — one patient often 
requiring treatment essentially different from 
another. 

Invalids, however, ought not to despair of the 
use of the water, and of its adaptation to their 
cases, simply because it may, at first, or even in 
the progress of its use, display some vagrant and 
improper action upon the system. Errors in its 
action, if tliey may so he termed, generally arise 
from errors in its use, and may generally be 
prevented by a change in the method of adminis- 
tration, or by some medical adjuvants, so that the 
water may be safely continued. 

SENSIBLE EFFECTS OF THE WATER ON T^E 

SYSTEM. 

The sensible medicinal effects of the water are 
prominently displayed in its action upon the 
bowels, liver, Jcidneys and sJcin, and, when drunk 
fresh at the fountain, by a liYelj , sfimidant effect 
upon the system in general, and upon the brain in 
particular. 

Proper quantities, taken in the morning before 



GENERAL DIRECTIONS. IIT 

breakfast, will often exert some cathartic effect in 
the course of the day. The liver is, in most 
instances, brought under its influence, from a few- 
days perseverance in the use of it, as will he 
manifest from the character of the excretions. 
Its action upon the kidneys is readily induced, and 
we occasionally see it exerting, at the same time, 
both a di#etic and cathartic operation. Yery 
commonly the exhalent vessels of the skin are 
stimulated to increased 2:)erspiration ; but its full 
effects upon the surface, manifested not only by 
incYQdimdi^\i\xt sulplmroiis perspiration^ do not occur 
until it has been freely used for several weeks, nor 
until the secretory system generally has been 
brought under its influence. 

In reference to its cathartic effects, I remark, 
that while as a general rule it gently opens the 
bowels, and in some cases purges freely, we meet 
with ocfcasional cases in which its effects are 
distinctly consterpative from the first. In other 
cases I have known it to purge gently for the first 
few days and afterwards to produce constipation. 

As the system is brought under the influence of 
the water, the appetite and the ability to digest 
food are sensibly augmented. The spirits become 
buoyant and cheerful, with increased desire for 
social company and amusements. 

Exercise, previously irksome, is now enjoyed 
without fatigue, and so great is the change in the 
whole man, that the patient often expresses his 



118 WHITE SULPHUE SPRINGS. 

appreciation of it by declaring that he is ^^ a new 
man/' — and so he is, in reference to his physical 
and social feelings. 

EFFECTS 0:N" THE PULSE. 

The effect of the water upon the pulse ought to 
he distinctly noted, inasmuch as its#,ction upon 
the circulatory system affords one of the best 
indications of its adaptation, or inadaptation, to 
the cas3. 

As a general rule it will he found that, after 
the water has been properly used for a sufficient 
time to enter the circulation, by those to whose 
cases it is well adapted, and the frequency of 
whose pulse is much above the natural standard, 
the pulse will be reduced in frequency and in 
force. This reduction of the pulse is not the con- 
sequence of any direct sedative action of the water 
on the heart and arteries, but is the sanative 
result of its alterative and calming influences 
upon the general economy ; and especially from 
its agency in stimulating glandular secretions, 
emulging the emunctories, removing offensive 
debris that oppress the circulatory organs and 
functions, thus giving a clear and unembarrassed 
course to the great circuit of the fluids through 
the system, as well the chyle and lymph as the 
venous and arterial blood. 

A common consequence, from the proper admin- 



GENERAL DIRECTIONS. 119 

istration of the water^ in cases to whicli it is well 
suited, is an essential modification of the circula- 
tion both in frequency and force ; so much so, 
indeed, that I am never surprised to find the 
pulse, whose beat has been from 90 to 120 in the 
minute, reduced to 75 or 80, and, in many cases, 
quite down to the natural standard of the indi- 
vidual, whatever that may have been ; while the 
volume of blood in the artery is increased, as well 
as the softness and mildness of its flow. 

Experience has so clearly taught me to rely 
upon the reduction of the frequency and force of 
the pulse, as indicative of the value of the water 
to the • patient, that I habitually look to such 
effects as among the most distinct indications to 
'persevere in its use. 

On the contrary, if the effects of the water be 
to increase the number of pulsations, or, in any 
considerable degree, to render the circulation 
more irritable, my inferences are unfavorable to 
its use ; and if this state of things cannot be 
readily changed by a different administration of 
the water, its discontinuance is advised, for it 
never proves heneficial luhen it perseveringly excites 
the frequency of the circulation. There may be a 
condition of things in the case that would not 
justify a hasty discontinuance of the water, merely 
because of its proneness to stimulate, in a slight 
degree, the heart and arteries ; but the propriety 
of continuing its use, in any such case, can only 



120 WHITE SULPnUR SPRINGS. 

be safely judged of by the well informed and dis- 
criminating medical mind. 

SYNOPSIS OF FACTS ILLUSTRATING THE MEDI- 
CINAL CHARACTER OF THE WATER, ETC. 

The following, facts, intended to illustrate the 
peculiar medicinal character and influences of the 
White Sulphur water, as well as the best manner 
of using it in ordinary cases, have been alluded 
to in other parts of this volume ; nevertheless, 
(although it may involve a repetition,) it is 
thought best to group them under one general 
head, for the greater convenience of the reader. 

Severally, and collectively, they are positions of 
great importance to the invalid^ and long experi- 
ence enables me to regard them in the light of 
APHORISMS, or fixed facts. 

1. The water is always more stimulant, and gen- 
erally less purgative^ w^hen taken fresh at the 
spring and abounding in its gas. 

2. The alterative, or changing, effects of the 
water, are by far its most valuable effects, and are 
those which, more than all others, give to it its 
distinctive and effective character. 

3. If the water produces active purgative, or 
diuretic effects, its alterative action is correspond- 
ingly delayed. 

4. In obstinate and important cases, the invalid 
should never consider that he has given the water 



GENERAL DIEECTIONS. 121 

a fair trial, "or that lie lias obtained its full cura- 
tive effects, until lie has ex^ierienced its general 
alterative influences^ and maintained them upon 
the system for some time, and tins entirely irrespec- 
tive of the time he may have used the luater. 

5. As it is uniformly true that the water is 
seldom permanently serviceable, when it acts as 
an irritant upon any portion of the body, it follows 
that its use should not be persevered in when, for 
any considerable time, it continues thus to act. 
It may, however, almost invariably be made to 
act kindly and soothingly, by a modification of 
the manner of using it, or by such gentle medi- 
cinal appliances as the peculiarity of the case may 
demand. 

6. From an improper use of the water, or from 
failure to use a timeous dose of medicine, to bring 
the system into a proper condition to receive it, it 
occasionally disagrees with persons (to whose con- 
stitution and case it is well adapted,) until the 
errors, whatever they may be, have been cor- 
rected. 

7. An active and long-continued diuretic effect 
is generally useless, and frequently hurtful, and 
hence, when in much excess, should be arrested. 
This may be effected loith the utmost certainty by a 
modification in the quantity, or periods of using the 
water, and by gentle medical means that divert from 
the Iddneys and determine to the liver and sldn. 

8. As to the amount of water to be used in the 

11 



122 WHITE SULPHUR SPRINGS. 

course of tlie day, ot as to tlie number of days it 
should be used ; it is impossible to lay down a 
definite rule to apply in all cases. So much depends 
upon tlie nature of the case, and the peculiarities 
of the constitution of the patient, tha.t no fixed 
ride in these particulars can be laid down as appli- 
cable to all cases, and an attempt to do so would 
be ail act of empiricism more apt to mislead than 
to edify. 

USE OF BATHS. 

A most valuable aid in the use of this water is 
the tepid ^ loarm, or hot sulphur bath. I cannot 
here enter into particular directions for the use of 
such baths. I just observe that they may be made 
an important auxiliary in a large circle of cases, 
if timely and otherwise properly employed. 

Hot sulp)hiLr hathing, indeed hot bathing of any 
kind, is a remedy potent and positive in its 
influences ; — capable of effecting much good when 
judiciously employed, or corresponding evil when 
improperly used. Like potent mineral waters, it 
is often used empirically and improperly, and, 
hence, becomes a curse when it should have been 
a blessing. It is a remedy essentially revolu- 
tionary in its character, — never negative, but 
always producing positive results upon the 
economy, for good or for evil. 

The condition of the system indicates with 
sufficient clearness the time for commencing, and 



GENERAL DIRECTIONS. 123 

the temperature of the bath. In most cases , the 
hathing point is as clearly indicated under a course 
of sulphur waters as the blistering or bleeding 
point is in inflammations, and the value of the 
remedy is much dependent upon such timely 
employment. When the water has well opened 
the bowels, — has found its way into the general 
circulation, softening the skin and calming the 
irritation of the arterial system, the sulphur 'baths 
may be used with great confidence in their 
efficacy. 

Hot baths should never be taken during the 
existence of febrile excitement. They should be 
used on an empty stomach, and, as a general rule, 
before the decline of the day, and their tempera- 
ture always carefully regulated to suit the nature 
of the case and the state of the system. 



124 WHITE SULPHUU SPRINGS. 



CHAPTEE VIII. 

DISEASES IN WHICH THE WHITE SULPHUK MAY, 
OR MAY NOT, BE USEFULLY PRESCRIBED. 

Dyspepsia — Gastralgia — Water-Brash — Chronic Gastro- Enteritis — 
Diseases of tlie Liver — Jaundice — Enlargement of the Spleen — 
Chronic Irritation of the Boioels — Costiveness — Piles — Diseases of 
the Urinary Organs — Chronic Inflammation of the Kidneys — 
Diabetes — Female Diseases: Amenorrhmt, Dismenorrh(&a^ Chlo- 
rosis, Leucorrhoia — Chronic Affections of the Brain — Nervous 
Diseases — Paralysis — Some forms of Chronic Diseases of the 
Chest, or Breast Compkmits, {to be avoided in Pulmonary 
Consumption) — Bronchitis — Chronic Diseases of tJie Skin, 
Psoariasis, Lepra, Ill-conditioned Ulcers — Bheumatism and 
Oout — Dropsies — Scrofula — Mercurial Diseases — Erysipelas — 
Not to be used in Diseases of tlie Heart, or in Schirrus and 
Cancer — Chalybeate Spring — Society and its Amusements at the 
White Sidphur, etc. 

All mineral waters, as before remarked, are 
stimulants to a greater or less degree, and conse- 
quently are inapplicable to the treatment of acute, 
or highly inflammatory diseases. This remark is 
especially true as relates to the White Sulphur, 
particularly when drunk fresh at the spring, and 
abounding in its stimulating gas. It is true, as 
before shown, that when its exciting gas has 
flown off, it becomes far less stimulating, and may 
be used with safety and success in cases to which, 



DISEASES — ^DIRECTIONS. 125 

in its perfectly fresli state^, it would be totally 
unadaptecl. But even in its least stimulating 
form, it is inadmissible for excited or febrile 
conditions of the system ; and especially to cases 
of inflammatory action — at least, until the 
violence of such action has been subdued by other 
and appropriate agents. 

Various diseases of the stomachy liver, spleen, 
kidneys, and bladder, as well as some derange- 
ments of the brain and nervous system generally, 
are treated successfully by this agent. To the 
various affections of the skin, unattended with 
active inflammation ; to chronic affections of the 
bowels, and to gout and rheumatism, it is well 
adapted. In haemorrhoids ; in some of the 
chronic affections of the womb ; in chlorosis and 
other kindred female disorders ; in mercurial 
sequeloe, and especially in the secondary forms of 
lueSy and ill-conditioned ulcers in depraved con- 
stitutions, it constitutes the most valuable remedy 
to which the invalid can resort. 

If the individual, about to submit himself to 
the use of this water, is suffering from fullness 
and tension about the head, or pain with a sense 
of tightness in the chest or side, he should obtain 
relief from these symtoms before entering upon 
its use. If his tongue be white or heavily coated, 
or if he be continuously or periodically feverish, 
or have that peculiar lassitude, with gastric 
distress, manifesting recent or acute biliary 
11* 



126 WHITE SULPHUR SPRINGS. 

accumulations, he should avoid its use until, by 
proper medical treatment, his biliary organs are 
emulged, and his system prepared for its reception. 
Much suffering, on the one hand, would be 
avoided, and a far larger amount of good, on the 
other, would be achieved, if visitors were 
perfectly aware of, and carefully mindful of these 
facts. 

It is an every-day occurrence during the water- 
ing season at the '' White," for persons to seek 
medical advice, for the first time, after they have 
been using the water for days^ perhaps for weeks, 
and it is then sought because of vagrant opera- 
tions, or injurious effects of the water. In most 
such cases there will be found, upon examination, 
either the existence of some of the symptoms just 
mentioned, or evidences of local inflammation in 
some part of , the body, sufficient to prevent the 
constitutional efficacy of the remedy. I am often 
struck with the control which an apparently 
inconsiderable local inflammation will exert, in 
preventing the constitutional effects of mineral 
waters. To remove such local determinations 
where they exist, or greatly to lessen their 
activity, is all-important to secure the constitu- 
tional effects of sulphur water. 

It is necessary to reflect that mineral waters, 
like all medicinal substances, are adapted only to 
certain diseases, and that the more powerfully they 
act, the greater mischief they are capable of doing 



DISEASES— DIRECTIONS. 127 

if improperly administered ; /or, if it he asserted 
that they are capable of doing goodi. onlij^ without the 
power of doing harm, we may he satisfied that their 
qualities are too insignificant to merit notice. 

This consideration indicates the necessity of 
some caution in the use of waters which possess 
any sanative powers, and suggests the propriety 
in all doubtful cases, of consulting some pro- 
fessional man familiar with the subject, whose 
judgment may determine how far the water is 
applicable to each individual case, and in what 
manner it should be employed to be most effica- 
cious. 

A long list of successful cases that have fallen 
under my care, adapted to illustrate the beneficial 
effects of these waters^ in some of the more general 
and important maladies, might perhaps, without 
impropriety, be inserted here ; but I am induced 
to omit the insertion, because I am aware with 
what suspicion medical cases, however well 
authenticated, are received from an individual, 
Avhen they- are given to favor any particular 
practice, or to recommend any particular water. 
Besides, the insertion of names is objectionable in 
all private practice, and I consider the reputation 
of this particular water to be now too well 
established to require such assistance. 

But, anxious to obviate all possibility of 
mistake, and to prevent the reputation of a remedy 
so well deserving public confidence from being 



128 WHITE SULPnUR SPllINGS. 

sullied by failureSj on account of misapplication 
and improper collateral treatment^ I shall add to 
a catalogue of the leading diseases, to which these 
springs are more immediately adapted, a few 
succinct directions for the rational observance of 
such cautions as will be most likely to increase 
their salutary efficacy. And this, from local 
situation and the ample experience of near thirty 
years, I flatter myself I am in some measure 
capable of doing. 

DYSPEPSIA. 

In this common and annoying disease, consisting 
in derangement of function in the organs of diges- 
tion, the White Sulphur water has long maintained 
a high character. In this affection, especially in 
its confirmed stage, we almost invariably find the 
biliary secretions either vitiated in quality or de- 
ficient in quantity; constituting an important, 
and, not unfrequently, an embarrassing feature 
in its treatment ; nor can we ordinarily succeed 
in effecting a cure until the secretory functions of 
the liver are restored to a natural and healthy 
condition. 

The benefii^ial effects of the water in dyspepsia, 
seem to result mainly from its sanative action upon 
the liver. To alterate the secretor}^ functions of 
that organ, and establish a flow of healthy bile, 
is one of the great fortes of the water, and almost 
an invariable result of its persevering use. 



DISEASES — ^DIRECTIONS . 129 

That the water benefits the stomach, in many 
cases, by a primary action, — first, as an alkali and 
stimulant, neutralizing its acidity, and imparting 
directly a tone and energy to the viscus- — and, 
secondly, by a positive influence on its glandular 
structure, occasioning a healthy flow of gastric 
juice, I do not doubt. Still, the most decided and 
permanent benefits derived by dyspeptics have 
always seemed to me to be the result of full altera- 
tive impressions upon the liver. Certain it is, that 
without such an influence upon that organ, tJie 
dyspeptic can never he confident of the permanency of 
his relief. It would be well for sufferers under 
this distressing malady to bear this in mind, and 
not abandon the use of the water, as many do, 
until it has fully impressed the liver ; nor be 
discouraged at its apparent want of eflicacy, until 
it has been used sufficiently long to effect this 
object. 

In the course of my observations, I have often 
alluded to the alterative effects of sulphur water on 
the liver, as affording a most important indication 
of its efficacy. It may be asked, hoAv shall it be 
known when this alterative effect has taken place ? 
I reply, you are to judge of this mainly by the 
character of the excretions, and by all the indica- 
tions by which you judge of the alterative effects 
of mercury upon the same organ. 

Dysj)eptics often grievously err in the use of 
the water, by mistaking its primary effects^ which 



130 WHITE SULPHUR SPRINGS. 

are generally transitoryj for a permanent cure ; 
and hence abandon it before Hb permanent scmaiive 
action has been obtained. Such patients not un- 
frequently, after taking the water for a week or 
ten days, find that the acidity of the stomach has 
been relieved, their appetite increased, and that 
they are able to '^eat everything before them." 
This is all very well, as far as it goes, and if their 
attack be recent and slight, this comfortable 
state of things may continue ; but it will much 
oftener turn out to be merely the alkaline and 
stimulant influence of the w^ater upon the coats of 
the stomach, imparting this generous tone to the 
viscus for a season, and which in all probability 
is destined to lure them into an excess of diet and 
other imprudences, which will, ere long, develop 
to them the fact, that the monster was ^ ^scotched, 
not killed." 

The importance of the subject urges me to 
repeat, that the confirmed dyspeptic cannot too 
forcibly impress upon his mind the essential 
practical truth, that the alterative influences of 
the water must be exerted upon his system, before 
he can have assurance of permanent good from 
its use. 

As costiveness and irregularity of bowels are 
generally found in dyspepsia, some of the warm 
laxatives may be occasionally used for a short 
time after commencing the use of the water. And, 
as the disease is seldom unaccompanied by chronic 



DISEASES — DIRECTIOXS. 131 

obstructions J or^ at least, a torpid secretion of tlie 
liver, it will generally be found advisable to 
combine a sligbt mercurial with the medicine, 
intended to act slowly on tbe bowels, and, for this 
purpose; pills, composed of aloes, or ex. colocyntli 
and blue mass, taken in such doses as to keep up 
a regular peristaltic motion in tbe bowels, will be 
found to answer very v/ell. At the same time, it 
will be found advantageous to use some of tbe 
bitter vegetable tonics a short time beibre each 
meal. 

The water, as a general rule in dyspepsia, 
should be taken in moderate or small quantities, 
and with less or more of its gaseous contents, 
agreeably to the excitability of the system, and the 
amount of excitation which it may be desirable to 
produce. From/ozrr to eiglit glasses in the course 
of the day is the quantity that is generally found 
most serviceable in dyspeptic cases. 

Where the nervous system bears the fresh water 
with impunity, I prefer that the dyspeptic take it 
soon after it has been removed from the spring. 
"With many, however, there is found too much 
excitability for the water perfectly fresh; such, 
therefore, should use it more- or less stale, as their 
system will bear it. ^ 

Gastralgia, or Nervous Dyspepsia, is a form of 
disease occasionally met with at our watering 
X^laces, and is an affection often of difficult and 



132 WHITE SULPHUR SPRINaS. 

uncertain management, whatever Le the remedies 
employed. When it is purely functional and dis- 
connected with organic lesion, the White Sulphur, 
administered in moderate quantities, and in its 
least stimula,ting form, is a safe, and sometimes 
an efficacious remedy. I usually prefer, however, 
to continue its use, at first, no longer than may 
be necessary to bring the bowels and the secretory 
action of the liver under its influence, and then 
give the patient the advantage of the tonic in- 
fluence of the waters of the Sweet, or Bed Sweet, 
and their champaigne baths. Advantage is often 
derived by alternating during the season between 
the latter springs and the White, or some other 
sulphur water. 

Pyrosis, or Water-Brash, is another form of 
stomach disease, in which this water is occasionally 
used, and sometimes with very good effects. 
Indeed, it is rarely used in water-brash without 
benefit. In this form of disease, the water should 
never be taken in large and often-repeated 
draughts ; from such a course increased debility 
of the stomach, with other deleterious conse- 
quences, would rarely fail to follow. 

When good reasons exist for supposing the 
stomach to be scliirrous or cancerous, the patient 
should carefully oMstain from the use of this, or any 
of our mineral loaters. Several cases have come 
under my notice, in which much injury was 



DISEASES — DIRECTIONS. ^ 133 

received from tlieir use, some from tlie Alum 
water, others from^ this. 

It is scarcely necessary to say to the inteliigent 
reader, that dyspepsia is rarely cured, whatever 
be the remedies used, without a careful attention 
to diet. By care in diet, I by no means wish to 
be understood, that the patient is to confine 
himself to the stereotyped recipe of ^^ black tea and 
toast," and other light slops — the tendency of 
which is rather to enervate than invigorate the 
stomach — or that, in his mind's eye, he is ever to 
be weighing or measuring the quantity of food he 
is to consume at each meal. It has rarely been 
my good fortune to see any one cured of confirmed 
dyspepsia, who had been long kept on the miser- 
ably attenuated, debilitating slops, so often 
recommended for such ; and especially one, who 
weighs, if not his appetite, at leaet his aptitude 
to eat by avoirdupois. The fastidious particularity, 
secundern artem, in such cases, that is often wit- 
nessed, serves admirably to impress upon a mind, 
disposed, from the nature of the case, to be dis- 
tempered, the appalling truth that mortal disease 
is ever threatening ; to induce low spirits and 
despondency, and to superadd new horrors to a 
disease of itself sufficiently horrible. 

The diet in dyspepsia should always be appro- 
priate to the wants and ability of the stomach. 
In a majority of cases, the dyspeptic will more 
readily digest the lighter meats than the vegetable 
12 



134 WHITE SULPHUR SPRINGS. 

matter, upon whicli they generally feed ; and in 
such cases there is nothing more proper than light 
meats. Fresh eggs, properly prepared, may 
always be taken. Coarse rye bread is often the 
best diet of the kind. When wheat bread is used, 
it should always be well lightened and stale. 
Bread of corn, popular as a diet in Virginia, is 
found to agree admirably with some dyspeptics. 
Milk, as a general rule is not only harmless, 
but useful. Yegetables, whether dressed or un- 
dressed, in their simple state, or manufactured 
into pies, tarts, sweet-meats, etc., etc., must be 
repudiated. The same of soups, gravies, molten 
butter, etc. After all, however, there is no one 
who can judge of diet for the dyspeptic like the 
dyspeptic himself. Let such carefully examine 
themselves, and especially the effects of different 
articles of diet upon their system, and they may, 
without mistake, settle down upon those that are 
most beneficial. The true and only secret upon 
this subject is, to eat nothing that disagrees, and 
anything that does not, 

CHRONIC GASTRO-ENTERITIS, OR IRRITATION OF 
THE MUCOUS MEMBRANE OF THE STOMACH AND 
BOWELS. 

Perhaps the largest class of invalids that visit 
our mineral v/aters are those suffering from 
various depravities of the digestive and assimila- 



DISEASES — DIRECTION'S. 135 

tive functions, and with deranged condition of 
the mucous surfaces, particularly of the stomach 
and bowels. Of all people on the globe, the 
white population of the United States are most 
subject to this class of affections. The abundance 
and variety of the food in which they indiscrimi- 
nately indulge ; the use of bad liquors and wines, 
drugged, as they often are, by the most poisonous 
substances, by which a gill of pure spirits is rep- 
resented in a quart of the tempting compound ; 
together wuth fast eating, or rather bolting of 
food, peculiar to the '-^ go^a-lieaditiveness'' of 
American progress ; the consumption of gross 
and improper food; the chewing and smoking of 
tobacco, not to allude to the immense use of strong 
coffee ; — to w^iich may be added the incessant 
strain of the brain, and a never-ceasing excite- 
ment in the eager and uneasy struggle for wealth 
or political promotion ; if to these we add the 
effects of a constantly-acting malarious influence 
in many of the new States and Territories, and a 
variable and irregular climate in other portions 
of our country, we will be at little loss to account 
for the common occurrence of the congestions and 
irritations of the digestive mucous surfaces, which 
are exhibited under such a variety of symptoms 
as often to conceal their true pathology from the 
careless observer, and even, not unfrequently, to 
assume the name of different diseases, well calcu- 
lated to mislead as to their true nature. 



136 WHITE SULPHUR SPRINGS. 

Under the influences which this congested, irri- 
tatedj and sometimes inflamed, condition of the 
mucous membrane of the stomach and bowels gives 
rise, the portal circulation is retarded, and the 
liver secretes slowly and imperfectly ; with bad 
digestion, there must be imperfect chylification, 
and imperfect and unhealthy blood. The func- 
tions of the kidneys, too, will be badly performed, 
and, according to the diathesis that prevails, the 
urine will show an acid or alkaline predominance, 
in the form of lithic acid or the phosphates of 
lime and magnesia; irregularity of the bowels 
will prevail, sometimes too loose, sometimes cos- 
tive ; operations sometimes clayey, oftener mucous; 
occasionally, cholic will afflict, but more fre- 
quently gastric or intestinal neuralgia, manifested 
by vagrant and unsettled pains in various parts of 
the abdomen and chest, not unfrequently extend- 
ing to the windpipe, similating genuine bron- 
chitis, and often to the region of the heart, 
giving uneasy and alarming palpitations of that 
organ. 

When these intestinal mucous derangements 
exist in the female, the uterine system is often 
deranged, the periods become irregular or sus- 
pended, and the natural secretions deficient ; 
while leucorrlioea, or cldorosis, adds new causes of 
debility and discouragement. The train, badly 
nourished by thinned or vitiated blood, is brought, 
through its nerve conductors, into a reverse sym- 



DISEASES — DIRECTIONS. ' 137 

pathy with the diseased surfaces of the stomach 
and bowels, and fully acts its morbid part in the 
drama of discomforts and complainings, in the 
form of distressed forebodings and imaginings, 
with manifestations of • such Avretchedness- and 
unsteadiness of ]D^i-i'pose as we witness in liypo- 
cliondriasis and hysteria; sometimes by vertigo, 
headache^ languor, disinclination for business or 
society, ringing in the ears, watchfulness, cold 
feet, and, generally, by depressed or low spirits, 
with irritability and want of equanimity of 
temper. 

This peculiar disease of the stomach and bowels 
is far more common than it was in by-gone years. 
I am satisfied that the appearance of such cases at 
our fashionable watering places has been more 
than duplicated within the last ten years. It 
occurs more frequently with gentlemen than with 
ladies, agreeably to my observation, and more 
frequently in youth and middle age than in per- 
sons advanced in life, but occasionally in all ages, 
and in both sexes. In several cases that have 
been under my observation in the last year or 
two, I have been able to trace the origin of the 
disease very distinctly to the use of bad wines 
and spirits, and to the intemperate use of tobacco. 

In the progress of this disease the neuralgic 
symptoms often become very prominent, so much 
so, indeed, as sometimes to mislead the unwary- 
physician, as they often do the patient, into the 
12* 



138 WHITE SULPHUR SPKINGS. 

belief that the derangement of the nerves is the 
primary and principal disease. 

It is easy for the experienced practitioner to 
understand J but it is difficult for him to describe, 
the multifarious and anomalous symptoms, or 
sympathies, consequent upon a confirmed irrita- 
tion of the mucous coats of the stomach and 
bowels, that give rise to gastric or intestinal 
neuralgia. The great mobility of the nerves, and 
of the nervous centre, the brain, gives rise to 
sym23toms which, to some extent, actually control 
the case and the patient completely, and appear 
so prominent as to challenge a principal attention, 
while in fact they are mere sympathies of a morbid 
derangement, which lies entirely back of their 
development, and half hidden from view by their 
distressing prominence. To direct an exclusive 
nervine treatment for the relief of such symptoms, 
to the neglect of the pathological condition of the 
mucous surface upon which they depend, would 
be a great mistake ; such treatment, at most, 
could only be palliative^ and no more effective 
than an attempt to destroy a tree by merely 
lopping off its branches. 

In sulphur waters, we possess a valuable remedy 
for the treatment of the disease under consid- 
eration, while in the various neighboring alum- 
inous and chalybeate springs, we have agents 
well adapted to impart tone and strength to the 
nerves, after the system shall have been prepared, 



DISEASES MEECTIOXS. 139 

by the use of the sulphur water, for their 
employment. 

The selection of the time for the interposition 
of the strictly tonic waters, in such cases, is a 
matter of no little importance to the invalid ; for 
when they are used before proper alterative 
changes have been effected in the circulation, and 
upon the diseased surfaces and tissues, they Vv^ill 
always prove inefficacious, and sometimes preju- 
dicial. 

DISEASES OF THE LIVER. 

The liver is the largest gland in the human 
body and the first to exhibit development in the 
foetal state. It exists in almost every variety of 
animals, even in those whose other organs are 
very imperfectly developed. Its great size, its 
early and relative development in the fceiiis, and 
the complicated character of its vascular ma- 
chinery, all point it out as an organ of immense 
importance in the animal economy, and render 
the opinion very probable, which has been long 
entertained by physiologists, that it performs 
other functions and offices in the body, besides the 
daily secretion of a small quantity of bile. 

The amount of bile secreted by the liver in 
twenty-four hours, in an ordinary healthy con- 
dition of the body, is said not to exceed six or 
eight ounces — a relative amount altogether in- 



140 WHITE SULPHUR SPRINGS. 

adequate to its vast size and vascularity, in 
contrast with any other gland of the body. It 
serves as a central termination of the black blood 
of the abdomen, as the lungs do of the blood of 
the general system — a peculiarity which distin- 
guishes it from every other gland of the body, 
and renders it probable that, like the lungs, it 
exerts a peculiar influence upon the circulating 
fluid. 

The variety of forms and phases under which, 
liver complaints exist, and the sympathies by 
which the liver is connected with other organs and 
tissues of the body, demand the careful consid- 
eration of the medical practitioner in making up 
his diagnosis, and must always be duly weighed in 
forming his prognosis as to the results of clinical 
effort. 

The sympathy between the liver and stomach 
is constantly remarked, and is often so intense as 
to cause the practitioner to doubt as to which of 
the organs is the primary seat of disease. Indeed, 
the symptoms attending biliary derangements are 
so easily mistaken for, and so generally accom- 
panied by, derangements of the other digestive 
organs, as often to mislead both the patient and 
his medical adviser. Hence it is, that liver disease 
and dyspepsia are so often confounded, and the 
intelligent physician unable clearly to determine 
which of these organs was the original seat of the 
malady. 



DISEASES — DIRECTIONS. 141 

The symiDatliy between tlie liver and brain has 
long been observed. In functional or structural 
derangements of the liver^ there are few symptoms 
more constantly present than vertigo, headachcj 
or disturbance of the mental faculties. So con- 
stantly do these disturbances of the mental 
faculties exist in liver complaints, that they 
present one of the leading diagnostic symptoms of 
the existence of the disease. It has long been 
observed that intense thought^ or any strong 
emotion of the mind, will derange the biliary 
secretions. Fear, grief, and the other depressing 
passions, lessen ; while anger, hope, joy, etc., 
increase and sustain a rapid flow of bile. 

Diseases of the liver not uncommonly assume 
the appearance of pulmonic affections, and some- 
times end in actual disease of the lungs. Doubt- 
less this is often owing to the encroachment of 
the liver on the lungs, when the former is 
morbidly enlarged, thus disturbing the respiratory 
functions ; or'an irritation may extend itself from 
the former to the latter, and assume all the 
symptoms of an original idiopathic affection, 
while the original malady lies concealed. 

Chronic Hepatitis is a very common disease in 
this country, especially in our warmer latitudes 
and miasmatic districts. In its least complicated 
form it is characterized pathologically by a ple- 
thora or congested state of the vascular system of 



142 WHITE SULPHUR SPRINGS . 

the liver J accompaniedj of course, by derangements 
of the biliary functions and of the nervous system 
of the organ. Its approaches are generally slow 
and insidious, and often the health is entirely 
undermined before the sufferer is fully aware of 
his danger. For, without any symptoms of 
severe indisposition, it will often run on to suppu- 
ration, or organic induration of the viscus, before 
its existence is suspected. 

I once saw a patient, (a young man) whose first 
serious concern for his condition was occasioned 
by the bursting of an abscess in his liver. He 
died a few hours afterwards, and a post-mortem 
examination revealed the fact that his liver had 
been so entirely absorbed as to leave only a very 
small portion investing the gall-bladder. 

Chronic inflammation of the liver seldom goes 
for a great while without producing important 
mischief in the organs, occasionally resulting in 
abscess or tubercles, but more generally in indu- 
rating the structure, or enlarging the volume, 
of the viscus, constituting what is termed 
^' enlarged liver,'' schirrous liver, etc. 

While this chronic inflammation, obstruction, 
or impaired function of the liver is going on, they 
occasion indigestion, flatulence, a tenderness or 
pain in the right hypochondrium, which pain is 
often extended to the right scapula or top of the 
shoulder, but occasionally in the back, or on the 
left side over the region of the heart. (Johnson.) 



DISEASES — DIRECTIONS. 143 

To these symptoms are usually added an 
unpleasant sense of distension about the stomach, 
acidity, inability to lie comfortably on the left 
side, with pale or sallow complexion, and a 
gradual diminution of the flesh and strength. 

In the beginning of these aifections, the bowels 
are generally constipated, the fasces being at one 
time of a dark and at another of a lighter color 
than natural. As the disease advances, it some- 
times ends in diarrhoea or dysenteric irritation. 

Listlessness, languor, and aversion to enterprise, 
are characteristics of the disease. The sufferer 
delights to detail the misery of his case, and 
contemplates it ordinarily in its most unfavorable 
results. Wherever we find derangements of the 
hepatic functions, we find low spirits, irritability 
of temper, fickleness, timidity and hypochon- 
driacism, to a greater or less extent, and this, 
irrespective of the high natural order or cultiva- 
tion of the mind of the sufferer. 

The White Sulphur water acts specifically upon 
the secretory organs, and especially upon the 
liver. 

We have already, in another part of this 
volume, shown the striking similarity of action 
between mercury and sulphur Avaters upon the 
animal economy. In nothing is this more 
manifest than in their operations on the liver. 

The modus operandi of sulphur water upon this 
viscus is dissimilar to that of mercury, and yet the 



144 WHITE SULPHUR SPRINGS. 

effects of the two agents are strikiDgly analogous. 
The potent and controlling influences of the water 
over the secretory functions of the liver^ must be 
regarded as a specific quality of the agent, and as 
constituting an important therapeutical feature in 
the value of the article, for diseases of this organ. 
Its influence upon this gland is gradually, but 
surely, to unload it, when engorged, and to 
stimulate it to a healthy exercise of its functions, 
when torpid. The control which it may be made 
to exercise over the liver, in correcting and 
restoring its energies, is often as astonishing as it 
is gratifying- — establishing a copious flow of 
healthy bile, and a consequent activity of the 
bowels — imparting vigor to the whole digestive 
and assimilative functions, and, consequently, 
energy and strength to the body, and life and 
elasticity to the spirits. 

Attention was directed, at an early period in the 
history of mineral waters, to their controlling 
influence over diseases of the liver, and by the 
best informed practitioners both of Europe and 
this country, sulphur waters have always been. 
favorite remedies in the treatment of that class of 
affections. 

The celebrated Dr. Armstrong, although of 
cool, discriminating, and well balanced mind, 
v»^as so much devoted to their use in chronic 
inflammations and congestions of the liver, that 
some of his contemporaries, less practiced in their 



DISEASES — DIRECTIONS. 145 

use^ tliougiit liim infatuated upon tlie subject. 
He preferred theiiij most decidedly, as an inde- 
pendent remedy, to mercury in all its forms ; but 
very properly observes, tliat in some cases it will 
be found best to combine the operation of tbe t^vo 
agents at the same time. 

For many years I have kept a case hooh at the 
Yv^hite Sulphur, and have carefully noted the 
influence of the water upon such diseases as have 
been submitted to my management. Among the 
number are several hundred cases of chronic 
affections of the liver, embracing disease of 
simple excitement J chronic inflammation, congestion, 
engorgement, and ohstruction of the biliary ducts, 
etc., etc. These cases were all treated either with 
the White Sulphur water, alone, or aided by some 
other appropriate alterative remedy ; and in 
looking at the results, I must be permitted to 
express a doubt whether a larger relative amount 
of amendments and cures have ever been effected 
by the usual resources of the medical shop. - This 
I know is high eulogy of sulphur water in such 
diseases. It is considerately made, and is not 
higher than its merits justify. 

It is proper that those affected with liver 
disease, (and they constitute no small portion of 
the population, in certain districts of our south- 
western territory,) should know something of 
the confidence they may place in these waters for 
relief. 

13 



146 WHITE SULPHUE SPUINGS. 

Volumes might be filled with details of grati- 
fying results that have taken place in the cases of 
invalids, from almost every section of the country, 
who visited these waters as a sort of ''last 
resort" for liver disease. And hundreds of 
delighted witnesses may be found, especially in 
the warmer regions of the south, who bear a 
willing and grateful testimony to their utility in 
such cases. 

Let me not be understood, however, as advancing 
the opinion, that sulphur water will cure every 
case of chronic liver disease. Far from it. I 
have already stated, else where, that mineral waters 
will sometimes fail in chronic diseases of dis- 
ordered action only. This, it is most probable, 
happens in cases where the blood-vessels have been 
so long distended as to have lost their power of 
returning to their natural state. Besides, it will 
happen, that among the number of invalids that 
crowd our watering places, seeking relief from 
this common affection, many will be found in 
whose livers organic lesions have already taken 
place. In such, perfect cures need not be 
expected, either by sulphur waters or any other 
agents. 

In another part of this volume,* the importance 
of using mild alterative cathartic medicines, in 
connection with mineral Avaters, has been dis- 

* See cliapter iii, " On tlie Use of Medicines, etc." 



DISEASES — DIRECTIONS. 14*7 

tinctly stated. In no class of cases is this practice 
more important than in diseases of the liver. In 
obstinate cases, or those in which the use of 
mercurials are inadmissible, the nitro-mwiatic 
hath may be resorted to with good effect as an 
adjuvant to the water. 

JAUNDICE. 

Jaundice is a form of liver disease in which the 
"White Sulphur water is used with very happy 
effects. 

This affection is characterized by a yellow tinge 
of the skin generally, and paticularly of the tunica 
conjunctiva; deep yellow or brown color of the 
urine, pale or clay -like color of the stools, sense 
of languor and lassitude, with depression of spirits 
and a disinclination to exercise. A sense of 
weight or uneasiness is often felt about the pit of 
the stomach, while the bowels are costive and the 
urine very highly colored. 

The cause of this disease has always been con- 
sidered to be obstructions of some kind or other 
to the free egress of the bile from the excretory 
. ducts of the liver. Most commonly, these obstruc- 
tions are occasioned by inspissated bile or calculous 
concretions within the gall ducts themselves ; 
occasionally by spasmodic constrictions of the 
hiliary tubes ; and now and then from external 
pressure by tumors on the liver itself, or some 
neighboring part. 



148 WHITE SULPHUR, SPRINaS. 

When the obstruction arises from inspissated 
bile or very small calculi, or from spasm of the 
gall ducts themselves, the disease is comparatively 
easily relieved; and such cases are generally cured 
by the White Sulphur water with certainty, in a 
few weeks. 

When, however, the obstructing calculi are 
largG;, and the spasm and irritation considerable, 
the disease is not only more tedious, but the 
measure of relief from the water more uncertain. 

The use of mercurial aperients, especially small 
doses of calomel with aloes, or col. and ant., which, 
while they clear the bowels, excite the biliary 
ducts, are generally valuable adjuvants to the 
water. Advantage is also derived, especially in 
the declining stage of the disease, from the bitter 
vegetable infusions, such as camomile, gentian, or 
quassia. The nitro-muriatic bath is a remedy of 
much promise in this disease, and should not be 
overlooked in obstinate. cases. 

Mr. G-., aged forty-five, of robust frame and 
naturally of good constitution, sought my advice 
on the 6th of September, 1856. He was suffering 
from intense jaundice of several weeks' continu- 
ance ; his entire surface was of deep orange hue ; 
constant sense of uneasiness in his right side ; 
bowels obstinate ; excretions dry, and whitish in 
color ; tongue covered with a yellowish fur, and 
spirits desponding. 

Mr. (x. has lived for several years in a miasmatic 



DISEASES — DIPxECTIOXS. 149 

district^ and for two consecutive years lias had 
intermittent fever. He had been using the water 
very freely for two weeks before he called at my 
officCj but without any a,ppreciable benefit ; during 
all this time the water had been running off by 
the kidneys, but had not affected his bowels, 
softened his skin, or in any degree alterated his 
liver. I advised mercurial medicines, which it 
became necessary to repeat for several consecutive 
nights ; had warm cataplasms applied through 
the night to the hypochondriac region, first having 
the part well rubbed with a stimulating lotion ; 
diluted nitro-muriatic acid v\^as also freely used 
subsequently over the region of the liver. Caused 
him to discontinue the toater entirely for twenty- 
four Jioicrs, and then resume it morning and night 
in smaller doses than he had been using, and 
with longer intervals between the glasses ; — the 
warm sulphur bath w^as used, but not until the 
water, vvdth the mercurials, had begun to impress 
the liver. In six days after Mr. G. entered upon 
this treatment, he was decidedly improved, and, 
in less than three weeks, his amendment Vv^as so 
great, and the prospect of its continuing so evident, 
that he was advised to leave the Springs for his 
home. 

I give this case not because there is anything 
peculiar in it, but as a sample of many that occur, 
and especially to sliovv^ the beneficial effects of 
medicines in connection with the water in such 

13- 



150 WHITE SULPHUR SPRINGS. 

cases ^ and without wliiclij in the case related , it 
is obvious that the water would have been very 
tardy in producing a cure, if indeed it had not 
entirely failed to do so. 

CHRONIC ENLARGEMENT OF THE SPLEEN. 

Disorder and enlargement of the spleen are very 
often met with at a^ll our watering places. For 
many years I have carefully noted the operation of 
the White Sul|)hur water in such cases. Unaided 
by other means, it has not realized the high hopes 
I once had of it. Satisfied of the great advantage 
— I might saj' absolute necessity in many cases — 
of urging a treatment more active than the water 
alone, I now rarely rely on it to the exclusion of 
other agents. 

The preparations of iodine, used both internally 
and externally, are valuable adjuncts to the water 
in these cases. In some cases, good effects are 
derived from large doses of quinine ; and I often 
find it necessary to aid the purgative operation of 
the v^ater by the use of mild cathartics. 

CHRONIC DIARRHCEA. * 

Observation of the benefits derived from the use 
of the White Sulphur water in chronic irritations 
of the bowels, is coeval with the early use of the 
water ; yet in no other diseases is there greater 



DISEASES — DIRECTIONS. 151 

necessity for a careful patliolog}^ and a prudent 
and skillful use of the remedy. As a kind Provi- 
dence '' tempers the wind to the shorn lamh," so 
must this agent, potent for good or ill in such 
cases, be tempered to the morbid irritabilities of 
the bowels. 

In sucb affections, attended with frequent and 
copious serous dejections, the water^ if admissible 
at all, should be used with care, and in small 
portions at a time. Where there is extreme sus- 
ceptibility of the canal^ with tenderness on pres- 
sure, the draughts of water should be very small, 
not exceeding half a glass, (about one gill;) taken 
at such intervals as to secure the bowels against 
any excitation from the remedy. Under this 
guarded and almost homoeopathic administra- 
tion, — and, if necessary, connected with an occa- 
sional soothing potion, warm external applications 
to the bowels, and the frequent use of a tepid 
sulphur bath, — I often witness very gratifying 
results. 

Somewhat less difficulty is presented in mucous 
diarrhcea, and in such cases the action of the water, 
prudently used, is generally favorable. We some- 
times find an affection of the mucous coat of the 
bowels, especially in persons from the warmer 
regions of our country, connected with functional 
derangements of the stomach and liver ; in sucb 
cases, it will usually be found that, in proportion 
as the tone of the former, and the healthful secre- 



152 WHITE SULPHUR SPRINGS. 

tioiis cf the latter, are restored, tlie morbid con- 
dition of the bowels ceases. In no class of cases, 
however, if we except diseases of the lungs, is 
more prudence demanded in the administration of 
the water than in irritated conditions of the 
bowels. AVhen judiciously and cautiously pre- 
scribed, the agent is not only a safe, but a 
valuable remedy, in diseases of this class ; but 
when used, as it sometimes most imprudently is, 
in cases attended with excessive irritation or 
ulceration of the coats of the bowels, most i^reju- 
dicial consequencesinay result. 

In connection with the water,, in this class of 
diseases, I often, and with excellent eifect, use 
warm emollient cataplasms, with the internal 
administration, of some mild alterative and sooth- 
ing medicine. 

To warm sidplmr hatJiSy in such cases, much 
confidence is due. To be safely and successfully 
employed, the bath should be carefully adapted,' 
both as to time and temjoeraiure, to the demands of 
the case. 

Mr. J., of Virginia, aged seventy-six, naturally 
of good constitution, arrived at the Springs in 
August, 1856 ; he had been suffering with chronic 
diarrhoea of muco-serous character for two years, 
attended v/ith an almost entire absence of bile in 
the excretions. The disease had reduced him 
considerably both in fiesh and strength; his 
operations, which w^ere large and frec[uent, w^ere 



DISEASES — DIRECTIONS. 153 

SO prostrating as often to oblige liim to use diffu- 
sible stimulants to maintain liis strength. 

On reaching the Springs, Mr. J. commenced the 
use of the water in the dose of half a glass at a 
draught, and used it, at first, only before break- 
fast and after tea. For the first two or three days 
he used but one pint in the twenty-four hours, 
which was gradually increased to two, and finally 
to three pints in the course of the day. An ob- 
vious amendment was perceived after the sixth 
day, and in three weeks Mr. J. was permitted to 
leave the Springs, apparently, and, as observation 
has since verified, permanently cured. , 

The sulphur bath was used in this case, with 
some local applications to the bowels at night, and 
now and then a soothing pill or potion given, 
mainly with the view to have the water well 
retained in the system. The treatment, except b^^ 
the sulphur water and baths, could not to any 
considera,ble degree account for his recovery. 

I have given this case because it is a recent one, 
and remarkable on account of the age of the 
j)atient, the long continuance of the disease, and 
the rapidity of the cure. Cases not dissimilar, 
except in the age of the patient, have been fre- 
quent in my practice at "the springs for the last 
twenty years. 

The following case is published with the view 
of presenting the effects of the waiter in diarrhoea 
connected with subacute inflammation of the coats 
of the stomach and bowels. 



154 WHITE SULPHUR SPRINGS. 

Mr. G-., of ISTortli Carolina, consulted me in 
August, 1856 ; his disease was subacute inflam- 
mation of the stomach and bowels, attended with 
frequent debilitating operations. The case was 
of several months' continuance, and had super- 
vened upon an imperfectly cured dysentery ; his 
tongue was thin, liard, and glazed ; pulse feeble, 
but quick, and varying from 100 to 120 afc different 
periods of the day ; the muscles covering his 
bowels were tense and firm, and there was some 
tenderness on pressure over the whole surface of 
the abdomen. He was considerably reduced in- 
flesh ; his appetite precarious and bad, and his 
spirits worse. 

Mr. Gr. had been using the water, and in quite 
too large doses, for several days before he called 
upon me, which had, to some extent, aggravated 
all his symptoms. Under its use he had become 
feverish, his appetite diminished, his strength 
decreased, and his bowels more irritable. I 
cansed him to discontinue the ivater for several 
days ; had warm poultices applied to his bowels ; 
administered morphia, ipecacuanha, and mild 
mercurials. In three days the febrile tendency 
had so abated as to induce me to try the water in 
its stale form, and in doses of half a glass, re- 
peated at intervals of one hour. It acted most 
kindly and soothingly, and his amendment 
speedily became obvious ; indeed, he experienced 
great relief from all his worst symptoms ; his 



DISEASES — DIRECTIONS. 155 

bowels, however, still continLied to Le too often 
moyecl, whicli I judged to be rather the effect 
of debility of the alimentary canal than of any 
irritating cause. Under this state of things, be- 
lieving the irritation and congestion of the vessels 
sufficiently subdued to enable him to take tonic 
waters to advantage, I ordered him to the Eock- 
bridge Alum, and have since learned that he 
became entirely well before returning home. 



COSTIYENESS. 

In costiveness, dependent upon deficient or de- 
praved biliary secretions, great confidence may be 
placed in the persevering use of the water, espe- 
cially if it be aided by the occasional administra- 
tion of small mercurials combined w^ith taraxicum 
and rhubarb. 

Where great poverty or deficiency of bile exists, 
the inspissated ox gall is found to be useful. It 
may be taken in pills, in quantities of ten or 
:^fteen grains daily, with a little taraxicum and 
rhubarb. 

In costiveness from general inertia of the alimen- 
tary canal, there is less cause to be pleased with 
the efficiency of the White Sulphur water. Such 
cases are commonly found connected with great 
languor of the body and general nervous irrita- 
bility. The use of the sulplrdv baths, of a tem- 
perature from 98° to 106° should be employed in 



156 WHITE SULPHUR SPRUrGS. 

sncli cases, in connection with the water, which 
should be drunk as freely as the stomach will 
bear it^ morning, noon and night, unless it run 
off by the kidneys ; in which case it ought to be 
entirely suspended for a day, and an active cath- 
artic taken before its use is resumed. 



PILES. 

The use of mild laxatives in hemorrhoids has 
been so long a favorite practice, that nothing 
needs be said here in its favor. Tlie beneficial 
effects of this water in piles are, doubtless, in 
some degree, owing to its mild |)iirgative opera- 
tions ; but, to a still greater extent, to its altera- 
tive action. In most cases of this disorder, the 
liver is more or less implicated, and the relief of 
that viscus brings relief to the hemorrhoidal 
vessels. I will only add, that both in the common 
and hlind ^nles the water is advantageously used, 
but more especially in the latter. 



DISEASES OF THE URIKARY ORGANS. 

Incipient Calculous affections are occasionally 
submitted to the use of this water, and, for such 
cases, it has long maintained a reputation. Cases 
are said to have occurred, though none such have 
come under my observation, in which it displayed 
litlionh 'vptic quali ties . 



DISEASES — DIRECTIONS. 15*7 

The palliative effects of tlie water in calculous 
affections are often experienced to the great com- 
fort of the sufferer ; but it is only, I believej in 
the earlier stages of such affections that it can be 
regarded as better than a palliative. 

Incipient calculous affection is relieved by the 
water pretty much in proportion as it corrects the 
digestive and assimilative functions, improves the 
blood, and brings the general economy into a 
natural type; preparing the kidneys to resist 
foreign encroachments upon their functions, and 
to elaborate, from healthy blood, proper and 
healthy secretions. 

Although I do not claim for the water solvent 
powers, it may, nevertheless, exert both upon 
renal and vesical calculi, some directly modifying 
influences, by correcting the LitJdc DiatJiesis, and, 
by an increased flow of urine, hurrying through 
the kidneys and bladder, the lithates and jylios- 
pJiates, which are usually the nucleus of calculi. 
I know, indeed, that persons while using the 
water often void considerahle quantities of small 
calculi, with very li^"tle pain or inconvenience. 

Chronic Inflammation of the Kidneys, as well as 
similar affections of the Bladder and Urethra, are 
often successfully treated by this water. I deem 
it a duty to allude to a very common error in the 
manner of using the water in these affections. I 
have reference to the practice of drinking it in 
14 



158 WHITE SULPHUR SPHINGS. 

"large quantities^ witli the view of estaMisliing 
copious discharges from the kidneys. By an iili" 
prudence of this kind, the cure of the case is not 
only prevented, but lasting injury inflicted in a 
superadded debility of the organs. 

In these cases, the water should be so used as to 
keep up a gentle diuretic action for several weeks, 
carefully guarding against excessive discharges of 
this kind. 

In cases of chronic irritahility or obstructions of 
the Iddneys, the medicinal agency of the water 
lies in its alterative and deohstruent effects, and the 
patient that fails to obtain these, fails to obtain 
permanent relief from its use. Hence, by those 
thus afflicted, it should be so taken as most effec- 
tually to secure these objects. 

A mere drenching of the kidneys, or, as visitors 
sometimes express it, a 'thorough washing out" 
of these organs, by constant and copious diuresis, 
is worse than nothing ; never permanently useful 
— often prejudicial. 

I have reason to know that many persons 
affected with disease of the kidney, hastily leave 
the springs in despair of relief, because their 
injudicious manner of using the water makes it 
act too freely and forcibly on that organ. As a 
general thing, such persons are more in fault than 
the water ; for while such free action is injurious 
in such cases, it is perfectly in the power of a 
judicious use of it, or by the interposition of mild 



DISEASES — DIRECTIONS. 159 

adjuvants, that have been frequently alluded to 
in this volume, to prevent this hurtful state of 
things ; to give such patients the full benefit of 
its valuable alterative and deobstruent powers, 
and this, without any over-excitation, or exhaus- 
tion of the kidneys. The great importance of 
this fact to many sufferers, and the strange 
disregard that is paid to it by many, justify me in 
distinctly calling attention to it under this head. 
In cases of irritation of the bladder or kidneys, 
and especially in chronic catarrh of the bladder, 
I never advise the waters except in connection 
with appropriate mucilages and occasional ano- 
dynes to prevent their over stimulating effects 
upon these organs. Unaided by these, cures are 
sometimes effected, but by no means with the 
same certainty and in so short a period of time. 

DIABETES. 

The nature of Diabetes is so imperfectly under- 
stood, that medical men do not agree as to the 
part^of the body in which it is primarily situated. 
Some suppose that the kidneys are the original 
seat of the disease ; others, that it depends on 
the state of the stomach ; while it has been 
imputed by others to a diseased state of the blood. 
Its exciting causes are numerous — such as over- 
exercise of the mind or body, use of spirituous 
liquors, excessive or improper indulgences, the 



160 WHITE SULPHUR SPRINGS. 

depressing i^assions, etc. It is commonly con- 
nected with a depraved and shattered constitution, 
and it is often difficult, when physicians are 
consulted, to say whether it he the cause, or the 
consequence, of the constitutional deprivation. 

It is often attended with indigestion, general 
debility, constipation of the bowels, thirst, 
dryness of the skin, and irregular, capricious, 
and sometimes voracious appetite. Its pathog- 
nomic symptom is a great increase in the flow of 
urine, which is generally of a pale straw color, 
sometimes insipid, but oftener of a sweetish taste, 
and faint smell, resembling that of violets, and 
containing a considerable quantity of sugar. 

Cases of Diabetes have not been very numerous 
at the ^^ White," but they have occasionally come 
under my observation. One of great interest fell 
under my notice some years since, in the person 
of Mr. S,, a very intelligent gentleman from the 
State of Georgia. He was greatly emaciated, 
from the effects of the disease, but after using the 
water for some ten days, he commenced improving, 
and regained his flesh at the rate of a pound a day 
for a number of days. Another case was so far 
relieved last summer as to give me confidence in 
its ultimate cure. 

In Diabetes, the water should be administered 
in small and oft-repeated doses. The diet should 
be the most nourishing kinds of animal food, and 
in quantities suited to the strength of the 



DISEASES — DIRECTIONS. 161 

digestive powers. The tincture of iron is useful 
in connection with the waters, and the hot sulphur 
bath is a valuable adjunct in such cases. 

FEMALE DISEASES. 

For the various forms of chronic female disease, 
such as Amenorrhcea, or suppressed menstruation; 
DysmenorrikeAj or difficult and painful menstrua- 
tion, Chlorosis, and Leucorrlioea, the water of the 
White Sulphur has been much employed. When 
the cases have been properly discriminated, and 
were free from the combinations and states of the 
system that contra-indicate the use of the remedy, 
it has often exerted marked good effect. 

While these waters do not display the powers of 
an active emmenagogue, that they exert an 
influence upon the uterine system, independent of 
their general stimulant powers, is manifest from 
their tendency (when used during the periods) of 
increasing the periodical flow of females ; — from 
the fact that they increase menorrliagic affections, 
and, from the unpleasant efl'ects they occasionally 
produce in the early stages of pregnancy. 

To say nothing of the value of the alterative 
influence of the water, as specially exerted upon 
the organs which are the immediate seat of the 
diseases under consideration, its general changing 
effects upon the entire organism of the system, 
resulting in unlocking and liberating the various 



14 



162 WHITE SULPHUR SPRINGS. 

secretions, and, consequently, in restoring the 
glands, capillaries, and blood-vessels to a natural 
and healthy condition, is a great point gained in 
female diseases, and -generally the concomitant, 
or immediate precursor, of a complete cure. 

But the mere namejs, and actual existence of 
these several diseases, are not sufficient to decide 
as to the propriety of using sulphur waters in such 
cases. We must carefully note the peculiar tem- 
perament of the female, and her constitutional 
habitudes, her exemption from a phlogosed state 
of the system, from inflammation in the female 
organs, or elsewhere, and especially as to her 
freedom from tubercles of the lungs, or scirrhosity 
of the uterus. 

In the early stages of pregnancy, the sulphur 
waters, if used at all, should be used with caution ; 
and in case of predisposition to abortion in early 
gestation, it is safest to avoid them altogether. 

It is most prudent for delicate females who are 
using the waters, and who are predisposed to too 
abundant, or too long-continued menstruation, to 
discontinue them for a few days during such 
periods. 

While under the influence of sulphur waters 
for the cure of these diseases, ladies will often 
derive the most material advantage from the Use 
of the warm and hot sulphur baths. 

A few years ago, a Clialyheate Spring was 
discovered and brought into use, within a few 



DISEASES — DIEECTIONS. 163 

hundred yards of the White Sulphur fountain. 
Since that time, I have been in the habit of 
prescribing small quantities of this chalybeate, to 
be used in connection with the sulphur water, in 
certain female diseases, and have had occasion to 
be gratified with the practice, 

CHRONIC AFFECTIONS OF THE BRAIN. 

Some interesting cases of chronic inflammation 
and congestion of portions of the cerebral mass 
have been met w^ith at the White Sulphur. 

It is only since the discovery of the successful 
use that may be made of the water, after being 
deprived of its stimulating gas, that it has been 
prescribed advantageously in affections of the 
brain. I have never^ indeed, seen a case of 
inflammation of this organ, in which the fresh 
water could be borne. When it is carefully 
deprived of its gas, however, either by heating or 
by being heiotfor a siifficient length of time in an open 
vessel, it agrees well with such affections, and I 
have, in many instances, prescribed it with happy 
results. 

NERVOUS DISEASES. 

The great increase of nervous diseases, within 
the last decade, must have attracted the attention 
of every observant individual. 

Neuralgia, in one form or another, has become 



164 WHITE SULPHUR SPRINGS. 

the prevailing disease of the whole country. It 
has been hut a few years since it was only known 
among us as a toothache from a denuded nerve, 
or in the form of the erratic hut twinging Tic 
douleureux. Now it is not only the common, hut 
the fashionable^ disease of the country. Once it 
was the peculiar privilege of the wealthy and the 
luxurious to boast of their neuralgia, as the 
^oarvenu does of his gout ; but noAV, the poorest, 
most unpretending subject can have his full share 
of this aristocratic affection. Formerly, a vulgar 
rheumatism took possession of the extremities, 
while a still more vulgar dyspepsia claimed the 
dominion of the stomach. But, how changed ! 
Neuralgia now takes the limbs, and gastralgia the 
primce vice. Formerly, a fashionable lady, to 
induce a reluctant husband or father to make "a 
pilgrimage to a fashionable watering place, was 
driven to a vulgar dyspepsia to effect the object ; 
now, a ^^ little neuralgia y'' Avhich may be located 
just at her pleasure, will answer every purpose. 

But, soberly, we are, and have been for twenty 
years, living under the reign of a nervous 
diathesis, which literally obliges every species of 
disease, acute and chronic, to wear its livery. 
The revolution that it has effected in the type and 
the treatment of disease is wonderful. To a large 
extent, even our fevers obey its behests, and hence 
inflammatory and hilioiis have almost given way in 
our nomenclature to nervous and typhoid. 



DISEASES — ^DIRECTIONS. 165 

In every aciite disease, we are aclmonislied that 
tliere is a prevailing constitution tliat inhibits the 
lancet and other rapid depletory practice, that so 
distinguished our country within the present 
generation. 

The most apathetic are now obliged to yield to 
the reign of the nerves, and look around for a 
placebo that was formerly allotted to the most 
effiminate alone. 

The various nervous affections, such as neu- 
ralgia, hypochondria, hysterics, chorea, etc., etc., 
are not unfrequently met with at the Springs ; 
sometimes as primary or independent diseases, 
"but more frequently in connection with derange- 
ments of the digestive organs. The direct 
influence of the water in restoring the tone and 
energy of the general system, by removing 
obstructions and correcting the functional de- 
rangements of the organs, obviously points to it 
as a remedy in the latter class of cases. The 
invigorating effects of the salubrious and charming 
climate in which the Spring is situated, and, I 
might add, the advantage of the exercise neces- 
sary to reach it, are efficient auxiliaries in such 
cases. 

In nervous diseases, especially under exalted 
nervous excitement, the water should almost 
invariably be used in small quantities at first, 
and in its least stimulating form ; that is, after it 
has been deprived of its gas by standing at least 



166 WHITE SULPHUR SPRINGS. 

twelve hours in an open vessel. In many cases it 
is indispensable that it should he suffered to stand 
even for twenty-four hours, or he gently heated, 
that its gas may he entirely thrown off before it 
is used. 

It was in nervous cases, many years ago, that I 
was led to appreciate the advantage of admin- 
istering the water in its unstimulating form ; a 
practice that has effected a triumph over the 
former method of using it fresh from the spring, 
as complete as it has been beneficial to thousands 
of nervous individuals. After thus using it a few- 
days, the patient will probably bear it fresh from 
the spring, and when such a tolerance is estab- 
lished, there is no objection to its being thus taken. 

PARALYSIS. 

In most cases. Palsy is the sequel of an attack 
of apoplexy, which has come on suddenly and 
unexpectedly. In other cases, however, it is 
brought on slowly and from causes that do not 
directly implicate the brain, affecting certain 
muscles only, leaving others of the same parts 
untouched. 

Paralysis may be complete or incomplete ; that 
is, the muscles affected mjjy be totally or par- 
tially powerless. There are many other causes 
besides apoplexy, that produce paralysis ; such as 
tumors, injuries caused by violence, cold, the 



DISEASES— DIRECTIONS . 167 

action of poisons, excessive or improper indnl- 
gences, derangement of the digestive functions, etc. 

When palsy occurs without "being preceded by 
apoplexy, its approaches are generally gradual and 
connected with some appreciated derangement of 
the health. 

A gentleman was under my care last summer 
with a decided paralysis of the entire right side, 
resulting from derangement of the chylopoietic 
viscera, in whom the disease came on so gradually, 
that he was unable with distinctness to designate 
the time of its first appearance. Another in- 
dividual, an elderly gentleman, was under my 
direction the same season, with a paralysis that 
had been induced by injudicious perseverance in 
cold shower bathing. Although this was an 
unequivocal case of hemiplegia, barely enabling 
the patient to drag his leaden-like limbs along, 
it was preceded by no apoplectic shock, the 
gentleman being quite conscious of the occasion 
and progress of the attack. There are other cases 
in which the loss of power over the muscles takes 
place instantaneously, although not preceded by 
a distinct apoplexy. 

The number of paralytics that resort to the 
White Sulphur is large, and their success from 
the use of the waters has been various. Cases 
resulting from dyspeptic depravities are oftener 
cured than those from any other cause ; but in 
almost every case some amendment of the general 



168 WHITE SULPHUR SPRINGS. 

health takes place, notwithstanding the paralysis 
may not be removed. Warm or hot sulphur baths 
are useful in connection with the water, in most 

cases. 

CHRONIC DISEASES OF THE CHEST— OR BREAST 
COMPLAINTS. 

The public generally, and no portion more than 
valetudinarians themselves, are prone to be ex- 
ceedingly loose, undefined and inaccurate in 
dravnng distinctions between the different and 
dissimilar diseases that occasionally affect the 
same organs of the body. This is especially the 
case when such diseases have one common generic 
name; as, for instance, the name oi ^^ Breast 
Complaint/' which, by a comprehensive and 
sweeping application, is made to embrace, not 
ouly Tubercular Consumption, a disease of scrofu- 
lous origin, and generally, if not uniformly, 
incurable, but also a large number of other 
affections of the ^'breast," whose nature and 
termination are altogether dissimilar, and none 
of which, from their peculiar pathology, ought 
to be regarded as necessarily incurable. 

The same want of discrimination that confounds 
diseases affecting the same organ and of the same 
generic name, is prone, as might be expected, to 
confound the practice appropriate for their cure. 
This is constantly found to be the case in reference 



DISEASES — DIRECTIOXS. 169 

to the use of the White Sulphur water in breast 
complaints. 

PuLMOXAEY CoxsuMPTiON (PlitMsis Pulmoiialis) 
has, to an alarming extent, hecome a disease of 
our country, and especially in the more Northern 
and Northwestern portions of it ; yet notwith- 
standing its frequency, it is unquestionahly true, 
that many diseases^, accompanied hy wasting of 
the hody, hectic fever, cough and mucous expec- 
toration, are often classed with it, hoth hy friends 
and medical attendants, where no scrofulous taint 
lurked in the constitution. 

It is often emharrassing, even to the most 
experienced physician, to decide with clearness 
whether the lungs are the primary seat of disease, 
or whether they are merely the seat of a sympa- 
thetic irritation originating in some other organ. 
Nor can the practitioner always, with more than 
prohlematical conjecture, decide as to the existence 
or condition of tuberculous formations. But 
whatever may he the medical opinion as to the 
precise pathology of the disease, if the hectic flush 
be upon the cheeks, the vermilion upon the lips, 
the burning heat in the palms of the hands and 
soles of the feet, with evening fever or cold 
colliquative sweats, connected with hollow, pale, 
languid countenance, sharpened features, purulent 
expectoration and progressive emaciation, consti- 
tuting the ever-present symptoms of PlitMsis 
15 



170 WHITE SULPHUR SPRINGS. 

Fuhnonalis, the use of the water ought to be 
withheld. 

The symptoms just enumerated are those that 
distinguish tubercular consumption in its ultimate 
or matured stage, and in which the use of the 
water would prove injurious ; but in no stage of 
formed, or forming tubercles of the lungs^ should 
it be relied upon as a remed}^. 

But it loj no means follows, either from sound 
reasoning in the premises, or from observation 
and experience, that the want of adaptation in the 
waters to tubercular consumption proves their want 
of adaptation to other forms of breast complaints. 
On the contrary, we know that the very best 
effects have often been derived from their use in 
various cases that seriously implicated the lungs. 

Caution, however, should be exercised in sub- 
mitting breast affections to the use of the White 
Sulphur water ; and where doubts exist as to the 
nature of the case, a careful exploration of the 
chest should be made, and the best professional 
opinion elicited as to its true pathology. If 
tubercles in a mature or immature state are found 
in the lungs, prudence dictates the avoidance of 
the water ; but if there be no tubercles, and no 
febrile excitement, it may be employed without 
fear, although there may be cough, mucous expec- 
toration and other symptoms evidencing a morbid 
determination to the lungs. 

I might, give numerous cases illustrating the 



DISEASES — DIEECTIONS. 171 

safety and success of the water in several forms of 
'^breast complaints," unconnected with a scrofu- 
lous diathesis or tubercles, but I will give one 
only, and that because it is of very recent occur- 
rence, and happened in the person of an intelli- 
gent young physician of my acquaintance. 

Dr. H., of C, had been suffering for more than 
two years with an affection of the lungs, during 
which time he has had several hemorrhages, with 
two distinct attacks of apoplexy of the lungs ; 
requiring, in each instance, active treatment for 
his relief. One of these apoplectic attacks, at- 
tended with hemorrhage, had occurred two wrecks 
before I saw him. On his arrival at the springs, 
his pulse was one hundred and fifteen beats a 
minute, sense of fullness about the chest, with 
restlessness and general nervous excitability. I 
discouraged him from the use of the waters, under 
the apprehension of an increased excitement from 
their use, both in the vascular and nervous 
system, and advised him to visit the Eed Sulphur, 
as offering a safer remedy. He disliked to make 
the journey, and determined to remain a few days 
at the White without using the water, and then 
return home. Under this state of things, and as 
he was a physician and could watch his own case 
intelligently, I advised him to make a careful 
trial of the water in its ungaseous form ; enjoining 
it upon him to discontinue its use if he found- it 
to increase his pulse, and to persevere if the force 



172 WHITE SULPHUR SPRINGS. 

or frequency of tlie pulse was reduced. The 
experiment was most fortunate ; his pulse was 
reduced day by day, until it came down to its 
natural standard ; the sense of fullness in the 
chest disappeared, the nervous excitement was 
assuaged, and, in every respect, the amendment 
w^as clear and unequivocal ; not evanescent, hut 
progressive and permanent. 

It is proper to state that Dr. H. made several 
attempts to take the water fresh from the spring, 
hut always found it too stimulating, and was 
forced to return to the ungaseous water. 

It would he impossible, without going into a 
very tedious dissertation on the nature and causes 
of the various diseases of the chest, (which would 
be foreign to the objects of this work,) to set 
forth, with such clearness as would be useful to 
the invalid, the various forms and modifications 
of Breast Complaints, for the cure of which the 
White Sulphur water may be safely and profitably 
employed. I shall allude here to but one of these 
forms, and to that, mainly because it is of very 
common occurrence and not unfrequently mistaken 
for genuine consumption. 

I shall call this form of disease Sympathetic 
Consiimp)tion^ because this name more clearly con- 
veys a correct idea of its character than any other 
I can give it. 

Sympathetic Consumption, although not peculiar 
to such, occurs most frequently in persons of some 



DISEASES— DIRECTIONS. 173 

constitutional disposition to phthisical complaints. 
It is the result of morbid sympathies extended 
from some other parts of the body, and more com- 
monly from a diseased stomach or liver. The 
great par vagum nerve^ common to both the 
stomach and lungs, affords a ready medium of 
sympathy between those two important organs. 
In protracted cases of dyspepsia, the stomach 
often throws out morbid influences to the wind- 
pipe and surface of the lungs, occasioning cough, 
mucous expectoration, pain in the breast, and 
many other usual symptoms of genuine consump- 
tion. So completely, indeed, does this translated 
affection wear the livery of the genuine disease, 
that, as before remarked, it is often mistaken for 
it. This form of disease comes often under my 
notice at the springs, and I frequently witness the 
happiest result from the employment of the water 
in such cases ; and the more so, because its bene- 
ficial effects resolve a painful doubt that often 
exists in the mind of the patient, as to the true 
character of his disease. 

BRONCHITIS. 

Bronchitis is often met with at all our watering- 
places ; sometimes as a primary affection of the 
bronchia, and often in connection with other dis- 
eases. 

Of late, this has become an exceedingly com- 
15* 



174 WHITE SULPHUE SPRINGS. 

mon disease witli the clergy of our country ; so 
m.ucli so, as eminently to demand an investigation 
into the peculiar causes that render this invalu- 
able class of men so subject to its influence. Such 
an investigation vv^ould not only be highly inter- 
esting as a curious subject of pathological inquiry, 
but also might be valuable by enabling the clergy 
to avoid the exciting and predisposing causes of 
the malady. It is not my purpose to enter into 
this investigation; it .would be foreign to the 
objects of this work ; but merely to observe, for 
the benefit of those thus afilicted, that the mineral 
waters of this region afford encouraging prospects 
of relief. We occasionally meet with cases that 
are relieved at this place ; and similar results 
occur at all our watering places. 

We often see BroncJiitis, at the White, give way 
and disappear, in the same ratio in which the 
water exerts its alterative power over the diges- 
tive and assimilative organs. Dr. E., of Lower 
Virginia, was relieved of an obstinate attack in 
this way ; an officer of our navy experienced the 
same good fortune. 



CHROOTC DISEASES OF THE SKIK 

The sjanpathy existing between the surface of 
the body and the large internal organs, particu- 
larly the stomach and liver, has long been known 
and appreciated by medical men. The celebrated 



DISEASES — DIRECTIONS. 175 

practice of ALernetliy, of directing his remedies 
to the stomach and bowels for the cure of cuta- 
neous diseases, was hased upon a knowledge of 
this sympathy. Dr. James Johnson, of London, 
in treating of the morhid sympathies of the 
organs, remarks, that in Cutaneous and Eruptive 
complaints, '^ an extensive class of diseases, whose 
treatment has hitherto been very puzzling, the 
stomach, in company with the liver and intestines, 
sympathizes to an extent that is little imagined ;" 
and adds, ^Hhat from the midst of the most 
inveterate of these^ there is scarcely one that is 
not more or less connected with derangements of 
the above-mentioned organs, but ^particularly the 
liver, and consequently under the control or in- 
fluence of remedies directed to them." 

I have very generally observed in the admin- 
istration of sulphur waters for cutaneous diseases, 
that just in proportion as the great abdominal 
organs became alterated, the disease of the skin 
was relieved ; nor do I anticipate any very decided 
amendment in such cases, especially if they be of 
long standing, until the water has exerted its 
sanatory effects upon those organs. 

The warm sulphur hath is a valuable assistant to 
the internal use of the waters in cutaneous diseases, 
and should be daily employed after the water has 
begun to show its alterative effects upon the liver 
and bowels. 

It is often exceedingly gratifying to residents at 



176 WHITE SULPHUR SPRINGS. 

tlie springs to witness tlie progressive disap- 
pearance of cutaneous eruptions, and ultimate 
recovery in tlie course of the season , of persons 
who come there with unseemly affections of this 
kind. 

In ill-conditioned idcers of the extremities, 
which are most generally found connected witli 
some general depravity of the constitution, the 
water, in a general way^ displays very fine effects. 
In such cases, I prefer the water to be so used as 
to make decided impressions upon the hoivels and 
shin for a few days, to be continued afterwards in 
smaller and less operative quantities. 

In administering the waters for diseases of the 
skin, owing probably to the fact that latent 
internal causes have not been fully removed, we 
are sometimes obliged to discontinue their use 
entirely for a few days, on account of the aggra- 
vation of the eruption, and to put the patient on 
a more active anti-phlogistic -treatment, with 
cooling laxatives and external emolient appli- 
cations, until the system is brought to that point 
at wliich the use of the waters may safely be 
resumed. 

The good effects of the waters in eruptive 
diseases are not always manifested until their use 
bas lain discontinued for some time. Indeed it is 
not uncommon to see such diseases apparently 
resist a course of the waters while they are being 
used, and yet yield completely to their influences 
after they have been discontinued. 



DISEASES — DIRECTIONS. IVY 

PSOEIASIS AKD LEPKA. 

The waters of the White Sulphur have been 
extensively used, and generally with beneficial 
results, both, in Psoriasis and Lepra. 

Nothing short, however, of a full course of the 
water, resulting in creating, and for a considerable 
time in sustaining, its alterative action upon the 
system, can be relied upon as fully remedial in 
such cases. Valuable as I esteemed the water in 
these cases, I have not been in the habit for 
several years of relying exclusively upon it in the 
more formidable cases of either of these diseases. 
The various mineral and vegetable alteratives, 
especially iodine, or hydriodate of potash in full 
doses, will be found valuable adjuncts ; and in 
the declining stages of such cases, that is, after 
the eruptions are giving way, benefit is often 
derived from the use of Fowler's solution in small 
doses, which, however, must be promptly dis- 
continued, if it occasion gastric uneasiness, 
swelling of the face, or muscular weakness. 

Psoriasis and Lepra are diseases so alike in their 
origin and nature, as always to require essentially 
the same treatment ; they are sometimes, in their 
early stages, easily cured, but often very obstinate, 
and, when relieved, are apt to return. Hence a 
mere amendment, under any treatment, should 
not be relied upon, but the course of treatment, 
to be effectual, must be long-continued and 
thorough. 



178 WHITE SULPHUR SPRINGS. 

In these diseases the warm sulphur bath, 
timeously used, is very valuahle. It should he 
employed daily, hut not until the general system 
shall have been brought somewhat under the 
alterative influence of the water ; used at an 
earlier period, it is always useless, and sometimes 
hurtful, by increasing local irritation or occa- 
sioning general fever. 

In the summer of 1856 a young gentleman 
came under my advice, who had been for several 
years a sufferer from Lepra. He was the son of 
wealthy parents residing in one of our large 
cities, and had been under the best medical advice 
of the country, but without essentially benefiting 
his condition. Both of his legs, from the ankles 
to the hips, were entirely covered with rough 
scales overlying inflamed and itchy surfaces, 
occasioning constant irritation and uneasiness, 
particularly at night. Under the free use of the 
water and bath, aided by the occasional adminis- 
tration of mild alteratives, the young gentleman 
had so entirely recovered in the course of eight 
weeks, as to induce me to advise him to leave the 
waters and return home. I saw him the next 
year and was gratified to find that his cure was 
entire and perfect. 

Numerous cases, in no important respects, 
dissimilar in their character or termination, are 
of freqiuent occurrence at the springs. 



DISEASES — DIRECTIONS. 1*79 

RHEUMATISM AND GOUT. 
Next to diseases of the abdominal viscera, 



rlieumatism is most frequentl}^ met witli at our 
watering j^laces. The ancient reputation of the 
"White Sulphur, and that which at an early day 
directed public attention to its potency, was 
derived from its successful use in rheumatism. 
Tradition says, that the efficacy of this spring in 
this disease was known to the Indians while they 
dwelt in the country ; and it is a matter of history 
that the first important cure it is known to have 
effected among the Whites, was in a disease of 
this kind. The reputation, thus early acquired, 
has not been lost, but on the contrary, has become 
established by the experience of more than half a 
century. 

It must be borne in mind, however, that it is 
not adapted to every case of rheumatism. It is 
only in the chronic form of this disease, when 
active inflammatory action is not present, that it 
can be looked to for success. 

We often see at our watering places, and particu- 
larly in persons from warm miasmatic regions, a 
form of rheumatism intimately connected with, 
and dependent upon, derangement of the internal 
organs. For the cure of such cases, the water is 
peculiarly adapted. The same discriminative and 
especial praise may be bestowed upon it in Mercu- 
rial rheumatism, which we occasionally find 



180 " WHITE SULPHUR SPRINGS. 

connected with, chronic inflammation and enlarge- 
ment of the bones. In most cases it will be 
advisable to connect the use of ivarm or Jiot bathing 
with the drinking of the water, and in many, 
especial advantage will be derived from the local 
application of this adjuvant in the form of a douche. 
The united effects of these agents, operating 
for a sufficient length of time, rarely fail to relax 
the rigidity of the muscles, to give strength, 
ease, and elasticity to tlie diseased joints, and to 
impart vigor and tone to the whole system. 

Gout is not unfrequently seen at this, and at 
all our watering places. The general operative 
influences of sulphur waters, and the tone and 
energy which they impart to the digestive 
and assimilative functions, are often serviceable 
in this painful affection ; and especially, when, 
with the use of the water, the patient pursues 
that prudent course of regimen which in this, not 
less than in other diseases originating in the 
stomach, is absolutely necessary to a cure. 

As a palliative, the water is very generally ser- 
viceable. 

DROPSIES. 

The alterative iniluence of sulphur waters is 
often very conspicuously displayed upon the 
absorbent as vfcU as upon the secretory system, 
and hence, under its use, dropsical effusions are 






DISEASES — DIRECTIONS. 181 

often removed, while tlie general health and tone 
of the system is so improved as to prevent their 
re-accumulation . 

In cases originating in, or dependent upon, 
ohstructions of the glands, the sulphur waters 
may be used with great confidence. 

There are no invalids, who drink the White 
Sulphur, that are more signally benefited by the 
use of active medicines in connection with it, than 
dropsical subjects. Indeed, in all such cases, 
appropriate medicines so increase the certainty 
and celerity of the action of the water upon the 
system, that their employment should never be 
overlooked or neglected by such patients. 

SCROFULA. 

, Sulphur waters have long been held in reputa- 
"tion as a remedy for Scrofula. Dr. Armstrong, 
an eminent practitioner, and long a resident 
physician at an English sulphur spring, states that 
he found the internal and external use of sulphur 
waters far more efficacious in scrofula than the 
common measures, for, after all the ordinary 
treatment had failed^ he had seen scrofulous 
affections cured by drinking such waters, and 
using them as a tepid bath. Dr. Salsbury, who, 
is familiar with the sulphur waters of Avon, New 
York, speaks favorably of their employment in 
such cases. My experience with the White Sul- 
16 



182 WHITE SULPHUR SPRINGS. 

pliTirj in tliis disease, has given me some conlidence 
in its employment; and especially in early stages of 
the affection. That it possesses considerahle pow- 
ers in resolving scrofulous tumors, I am satisfied. 
In the advanced stages of the disease, success has 
not heen uniform from its employment ; though, 
even in such, it is occasionally serviceable, and 
in no instances injurious, except in cases attended 
with ulcerations of the bowels. 

The constitutional invigoration, and the amend- 
ment of the general health, from the use of the 
water, is often advantageously felt by scrofulous 
subjects who may not experience entire relief of 
their strumous malady. 

In scrofulous and rickety children, affected 
with enlargement of the lymphatic glands, or 
Avith a hard and tumid abdomen, evidencing 
disease in the mesenteric glands, the use of the 
water is found very beneficial, imparting new % 
life and vigor to the young constitution, resolving . 
the induration and enlargement of the glands, .^ 
and lessening the tumefaction and hardness of m 
the abdomen. An ointment made of iodine, or 
hydriodate of potash, of such strength as not to \ 
excoriate the skin, may advantageously be rubbed 
over the enlarged glands or bowels during the 
use of the water ; and the chalybeate water, or, in 
its absence, some of the artificial preparations of 
iron, may occasionally be interposed with advan- 
tage. 



DISEASES — DIRECTIONS. 183 

la the united use of sulpliur and alum waters 
in these affections, there is a perfect co-mpatibilitj, 
and the employment of the former, for a few weeks, 
often constitutes the best preparation for the use 
of the latter. 

MERCURIAL DISEASES A^D SEC0:N"DARY 
SY^IPTOMS OF LUES. 

In that enfeebled, susceptible, and ver}^ peculiar 
condition of the system, often found to exist as the 
result of a long-continued or injudicious use of 
naercury, the White Sulphur water displays its 
happiest effects. Indeed, its powers in overcom- 
ing and eradicating the constitutional and local 
effects of this drug from the system, deserve to 
be called extraordinary, and cannot be too highly 
appreciated by the medical profession or the 
public. 

But it is especially to that anomalous^ but not 
uncommon state of the system, produced by the 
unsuccessful use of mercury in syphilitic affections, 
that I desire particularly to call attention in 
reference to the use of the water. 

Under the combined influence of mercury, and 
the peculiar virus of lues, a new and peculiar 
state of the system is sometimes induced, 
dissimilar to the ordinary syphilitic developments, 
and also from the symxotoms of a common mer- 
curial disease, a case sui generis; and unmistakably 



184 WHITE SULPHUR SPRINGS, 

manifested by the production of certain constitu- 
tional and local symptoms^ botli annoying and 
painful, and not unfrequently inducing great 
irritability of body and mind, with feelings of 
wretchedness and despondency. 

This peculiar disease, evidently one of constitu- 
tional character, manifests its existence by florid 
or livid spots, or blotches, on various parts of the 
body ; by scaly eruptions, and, in its ultimate 
form, by ragged, ill-conditioned ulcers, assaulting 
indiscriminately any portion of the body ; by 
nodes, or enlargement of the bones, most generally 
of the extremities, or the face ; ulcerated throat, 
pains in the limbs, with great susceptibility to 
pains and aches from changes of the weather, or 
from any slight influence of cold. The whole of 
these symptoms may not be present, or in force at 
the same time, or in the same patient, but they 
are all generally developed in the progress of such 
cases. In the commencement of the disease, there 
may be no symptoms to attract attention, except 
a tendency to discoloration in small irregular 
circles on parts of the body, or a brand-like 
scaliness on portions of the skin, with an 
augmented susceptibility to the influence of cold, 
or to sudden changes of the weather. Such 
symptoms will generally be found to be the 
incipients of this formidable malady, and which, 
if the disease be not then cured, are but the 
precursors of the more loathsome and dreaded 
symptoms. 



- DISEASES — ^DIRECTIONS. 185 

Cases of this x^haracter are found to exist, in 
greater or less severity, in all the varieties of 
constitution and temperament ; but more fre- 
quently and more severely in delicate persons of 
lymphatic temperament, and especially in such as 
are predisposed to strumous diseases. 

After long experience of the use of the water in 
the peculiar form of disease under consideration, 
I have no hesitation in saying, that if called upon 
to designate the particular affection, or state of 
the system, in which the White Sulphur water is 
most certainly beneficial, I would not hesitate to 
name mercurial diseases luitli secondary symptoms 
of lues ; because the water in such cases exerts a 
specific agency, and more certainly brings relief 
to the sufferer, than any other known agent. 
This is strong praise of the remedy in this 
disease, and nothing but long and successful 
experience in its use would induce me to award it. 

I use the phrase specific, a term, I know, as 
applied to remedies, not much favored by the 
schools of medicine ; but by what other term can 
we better designate the peculiar and constant 
aptitude of a remedy to produce always the same 
results ? — as mercury in its peculiar action upon 
the salivary glands, or as the White Sulphur 
water in its effects upon mercurial disease, for it 
is not more certain that mercury will salivate, 
than that the character of disease under con- 

16* 



186 WHITE SULPHUR SPRIN&S. 

sideration will be beneficially influenced by tlie 
proper use of the White Sulphur water. 

For more than twenty years I have watched the 
operation of these w^aters in the disease under 
consideration, and, within that time, hundreds of 
cases have been submitted to their use,; and I can 
say of their employment in such cases,' what 
should not be said of them in any other without 
qualification, that they have invariably, when 
properly used, either cured , or so relieved the 
patient, as to evidence the triumph of the remedy 
over the disease. 

Patients laboring under this affection, and, in 
some respect, in proportion to the violence of the 
case, are required to exercise patience and 
perseverance in the use of the remedy. To render 
it fully successful, nothing short of its complete 
and pervading alterative influences can be relied 
upon, and, to efi'ect this, in bad cases, from one to 
three months' use will generally be required ; 
occasionally intermitting it for a few days^ if it has 
to be very long continued. 

In treating such cases with sulphur water, great 
advantage will be gained and much time saved, 
by the administration of appropriate adjunctive 
remedies, and by the free use of the warm and 
hot sulphur baths, interposed after the water has, 
to some extent, affected the general system. 



DISEASES — DIRECTIOXS. 187 



ERYSIPELAS. 



There is a form of Erysipelas which I shall call 
habitual, because of its frequent occurrence in the 
same individual, that attacks, at irregular periods, 
any part of the body ; but, most commonly, the 
face, neck, or the other extremities. This affec- 
tion sometimes obstinately maintains the seat 
in which the inflammation first appears ; in other 
cases it extends with greater or less rapidity to 
adjacent parts of the body. It may occur with 
any one, but it especially prevails in persons 
constitutionally predisposed to the affection, and 
in such, being routed from one part, it will attack 
another j or at irregular intervals, and from 
various exciting causes, such as cold, improper 
diet, etc., it will return and re-assault the parts 
formerly its seat. The disease is attended with 
an unpleasant burning in the parts affected, and 
generally with a slight fever in its early stage, 
Avhicli is preceded by rigor or chilliness. It is a 
disagreeable and annoying affliction, and showing, 
even when slight, a strong predisposition to a 
more serious form of the same disease ; persons 
affected with it, however mildly, are anxious to 
be entirely relieved. 

For this form of erysipelatous inflammation, 
the White Sulphur is a valuable remedy. Many 
such cases come under my direction, and by the 
use of the waters generally, and mild alterative 



18S WHITE SULPHUR SPRINGS. 

applications locally to the affected parts, they have 
very generally been cured. 

It should be noted that, while the inflammation 
is active, or even slight fever exists, the water 
should be withheld.. 

DISEASES OF THE HEART. 

To guide intelligibly and safely in the admin- 
istration of mineral waters, it is as necessary to 
observe and note the diseases and states of the 
system in which such, agents are contra-indicated 
and hurtful, as those in which they are beneficial. 

I have elsewhere alluded to the injurious effects 
of mineral waters in organic affections of the 
heart ; but trhe subject is one of so much 
importance, and mistakes are so frequently made 
by unadvised, or badly advised, persons, that it 
i^eems proper to call attention more distinctly to it. 

Hypertrophy, or thickening of the heart, the 
most common, as well as the most formidable, 
chronic affection of that organ, is properly 
divisible into three varieties ; the first consisting 
of a thickening of the muscular tissue of the 
organ, without material alteration of the valves, 
or enlargement of the cavities of the viscus. In 
the second variety the thickness of the walls of 
the heart are increased, but principally on the 
inside, so that while the size of the whole organ 
may not be much increased, its cavities will be 



DISEASES — dieectio:n^s. 189 

considerably lessened. The third variety is 
hypertrophy or thickening of the walls, com- 
bined with dilatation, of greater or less extent, of 
the cavities ; this is the most serious and dreaded 
variety of the disease. 

In neither of the varieties'of hypertrophy of the 
heart, is the White Sulphur water remedial ; 
while in the second and third, it is manifestly 
injurious and hazardous, even when used in 
moderate quantities and for short periods of time. 
Such .will be, to a greater or less extent, the 
prejudicial effects of all the more stimulating 
waters, whether of Sulphur, Alum, Chalybeate 
or saline character. 

In the last twenty-five years I have known 
several cases of sudden death, in hypertrophy of 
the heart, occasioned by using the White Sulp)hur 
water. In numerous other cases, an aggravation 
of all the worst symptoms of the disease has been 
witnessed from the same cause, and the patients 
forced to discontinue the water, although the 
general state of their systems, apart from the con- 
dition of the heart, demanded its use. 

Experience of the injurious effects of the water 
in organic affections of the heart, has taught me 
the importance of carefully looking to the con- 
dition of that organ, in all cases submitted to my 
advice, when there is the slightest reason to 
suspect that it may not be free from disease. 

Let me be understood here, as alluding strictly 



190 WHITE SULPHUR SPRINGS. 

to orgQMic affections of the heart, and not to the 
various sympathetic affections of that organ, so 
often founclj especially in persons of nervous tena- 
peramentSj and in connection with dyspeptic 
depravities. Such sympathetic affections mani- 
fested by paroxysmal palpitations^ aud an awful 
sense of sinkingj are not uncommon in dyspepsia ; 
and, although always distressing, are less dan- 
gerous than patients are prone to fear. They are 
neuralgic in character, and while they excite on 
the mind of the sufferer the most unpleasant 
anxiety, in fear of an organic affection of the 
heart, such fears are generally groundless. The 
existence of the unpleasant symptoms alluded to, 
when found in connection with, and dependent 
upon a. dyspeptic condition of the stomach, in no 
respect contra -indicate the use of the waters ; on 
the contrary, these unpleasant symptoms are 
always relieved by the use ^of the water to the 
same extent that it benefits the disease upon which 
they depend. 

Patients suffering under organic affections of the 
heart should abstain from the use of sulphur 
waters, although the state of their general system 
may seem to indicate the use of the remedy. 
Most persons, thus advised, carefully adhere to 
the advice, but in a few instances I have known 
them to depart from it and use a few glasses of 
the water ; but never without "Occasioning an 
aggravation of their symptom 3. fn such diseases 



DISEASES — DIRECTIOIS^S. 191 

I am occasionally consulted by persons who have 
been using the water for a time, and finding they 
are not doing vrell;, seek advice ; in sucli cases, a 
discontiuuance of the water always gives evidence 
of its unsuitableness to the patient. 

During the summer of 1856, one of my patients 
was an eminent physician, Dr. G., of Eastern 
Virginia. In detailing to him, in a social pro- 
fessional way, the prejudicial effects of tbe water 
in diseases of the heart — and without suspecting 
that he was a subject of the malady^ for at that 
time I had not examined his case, — he manifested 
an acute interest in my recital, and before I had 
concluded, said, '' You are not aware, sir, that 
you are using the argume^itum ad Jiomincm ; I have 
long suspected that I am myself a subject of 
hypertrophy of the heart, — and what you now 
say of the peculiar symptoms occasioned by the 
use of the water in such cases^ painfully satisfies 
me that I have not been mistaken." He further 
told me that he found his unpleasant symptoms 
aggravated almost immediately after commencing 
the use of the water ; and I had the pleasure of 
witnessing a great abatement of them, after he 
discontinued its use entirely. 

.Cases have come under my notice in which the 
use of the water plainly developed to observation 
the existence of a diseased heart, which, before its 
use, had been doubted or unsuspected. 



192 WHITE SULPHUR SPRINGS. 



SCIRRHUS AND CANCER. 

In Cancerous affections^ I have not found tlie 
waters of th-e White Sulphur to be remedial. 

In ScirrJms, Avhich may be regarded as .an ap- 
proximation to Cancerj or rather the initial of 
that formidable disorder^ the same remarks may 
be made. Indeed, my observations are very 
unfavorable to the use of the waters in Scirrhus 
generally, and especially in schirrosity of the 
stomach and womb. Its tendency is injurious in 
such cases, and especially in their advanced 
stages ; so much so, that I never recommend, but 
always inhibit, its use when there is sufficient 
cause to believe these organs to be in such a con- 
dition. 

. So far as observation enables me to form an 
opin.ion, and various cases have contributed to the 
enlightenment of my judgment on the subject, 
none of our mineral waters, either Sulphur, Chalyb- 
eate, Alum or Saline, can be regarded as remedial 
in Scirrhus or Cancer ; and the best encomium 
that can be bestowed upon any of them, in such 
cases, is simply this, that the least j)otent will he the 
least injurious. 

We often meet in practice with ill-conditioned 
ulcers that are very unmanageable by the usual 
medico-surgical treatment ; such ulcerations are 
generally connected with advanced age, or with a 
debilitated and vitiated constitution. 



SOCIETY AND ITS AMUSEMENTS. 193 

These disorders are successfully treated by our 
stronger sulphur waters, and by the various 
Alum, or Aluminous sulphated Chalyheates of 
the country. Cases of this character, that are 
cured by mineral waters, have sometimes long 
resisted the usual medical treatment ; and this 
fact, in connection with their ill-conditioned char- 
acter, sometimes causes them to be regarded as 
cancerous. Patients, especially, taking counsel 
from their fears, often attribute to them this 
malignant character, but a wise and discrimi- 
nating pathology will distinguish between such, 
affections and the specific characteristics of Cancer. 

SOCIETY AXD ITS AMUSEMENTS AT THE WHITE 
SULPHUR. 

Next to the medicinal value of the water of the 
Wliite Sulphur, and the invigorating climate of 
the place, the company that annually assembles 
there is most worthy of notice. 

The prestige of the White Sulphur for all that 
is elegant and refined in society is coeval with its 
early history. For many years it has been the 
great central point of reunion for the best society 
of the South, iSTorth, East and West, that here 
mingle together under circumstances well calcu- 
lated to promote social intercourse, and to call out 
the kindliest feelings of our nature. 

The cottage system that has been introduced, 
17 



194 WHITE SULPHUR SPRINGS. 

although new to American watering places, has 
proved a complete success^ and greatly contributes 
to the home-like comforts and the sociality of the 
numerous families assembled here. 

Society seems here to meet on common ground, 
and the different shades of feeling influencing it 
at home are laid aside, while each individual pro- 
motes his own happiness by contributing to the 
happiness of others. 

Here is to be found tire statesman who, worn 
down with labor, and his mind unstrung by the 
cares of offi.ce, seeks from the bracing air, the 
picturesque scenery and the genial company, not 
less than from the health-giving waters, that 
recuperation of his wasted energies in vain sought 
for elsewhere. Here, too, is found the man of 
letters, seeking rest from thought, and strength 
for future effort. The poet, toO; is here to quaff 
vigor from the sparkling fountain, and new 
images of beauty from nature's lavish stores tliat 
are spread around him ; and here, too, come in 
crowds those who have ever plumed the poet's 
fancy to its sublimest flights — beauteous woman — ■ 
by her presence brightening every prospect, and 
gracing every scene. Following naturally in her 
train, come those who ever love to bask in beauty's 
smiles^ and find in such scenes the happiest of 
their youthful hours. Here, too, congregate the 
reverend clergy, the doctor, the lawyer, the judge, 
wearied with the burdens of the bench ; the man 



SOCIETY AND ITS AMUSEMENTS. 195 

of commercej the financierj the thrifty planter, 
the sturdy farmerj and the retired man of wealth 
and ease. These, reckoned by thousands, make 
up the company that annually give tone and char- 
acter to the White Sulphur, and make it at once 
the Athens and the Paris of America. 

The amusements are various in kind and in 
degree, l^lo sketch can give more than a faint 
shadowing of the pleasures of a visit .to the 
Springs. The freedom from care, the relaxation 
from bonds which have fettered us to the tread- 
mill of business ; the pure mountain air, every 
breath of which swells the veins and makes the 
blood tingle with delight ; the Avild mountain 
scenery awakening new thoughts of the grandeur 
of creation, and the mighty power of God ; the 
amenities of social intercourse, relieved from 
those necessary but vexatious rules of etiquette 
which hem in fashionable life at home ; all these 
combine to render a visit to the White Sulphur 
an epoch in life to be looked forward to, and back 
upon, with pleasurable emotions. 

The weary pilgrim coursing over the burning 
sands of the East, does not hail the sight of an 
oasis in mid-desert with more joy than the Jiahitiies 
of the "^^ White," worn down by cares or trouble, 
welcome the first glimpses of the sparkling foun- 
tain, and the verdant lawns encircled by cottage 
homes ; to him they promise rest, comfort, health ; 
while to others they tell of pleasures past and joys 



196 WHITE SULPHUR SPRINGS. 

to come. And why? For answer, let us briefly 
sketch the scenes of a single day at the Springs. 

The morning has dawned, the forest songster 
in saluting the opening day has softly wakened 
the sleeper ; the full round face of the sun soon 
appears above the neighboring mountain peak; 
the silvery vapor glides upward from the vale 
beneath, the fleecy clouds are gone, and the dewy 
fragrance of the morning air invites to active 
exercise. The visitors now gather around the 
health-giving fountain, and after quaffing its 
waters, wend their v/ay to the morning meal. 
This over, the business of active enjoyment for 
the day begins. 

The pleasant walks that penetrate the lawns 
and environ the grounds invite many to healthful 
exercise. The billiard saloon, with its numerous 
tables, entices many votaries ; the bowling alleys 
soon resound with the merry laugh of youth and 
beauty, and thus the hourg glide swiftly away ; 
while from another portion of the grounds is 
heard the clear, keen report from the pistol 
gallery, telling how promptly Young America is 
preparing to avenge his insulted honor. 

The beautiful rides and drives, with their 
glorious mountain and intervale scenery, attract 
some, while the quiet game, the alluring book, or 
the pleasant companion solace many others. Thus 
they take no note of time, save from its loss, until 
the warning sound of the dinner bell rings forth 



SOCIETY AND ITS AMUSEMENTS. 197 

the noontide hour, calling to prepare for the mid- 
day meal. Again the fountain is thronged, and 
then to the sound of rich-toned music, discoursed 
by a well-trained band, the crowd^ after the hour 
of preparation has elapsed, assemble in the im- 
mense and well-furnished drawing-room for a 
brief social reunion, before partaking of the great 
meal of the day. Dinner over^ the drawing-room 
again becomes the centre of attraction. In this 
room, during the crowded season, are each day 
brought pleasantly together a gay and richly^ 
dressed assembly, excelled in beauty, manliness, 
and dignity by no other crowd ever assembled 
within the broad limits of our common country. 
Here congregate the fliirest of the fair from every 
State, and one can gaze, and gaze on beauty until 
the heart reels in its very fullness. 

The company, wearied with converse or the 
promenade, retire to their cottage homes, or to 
the inviting shade of the wide-spread oaks, under- 
neath which, in by-gone years, the savage danced 
or the antlered monarch of the forest tossed his 
crest, now given up to the happy crowd who in 
genial converse while the hours away until the 
lengthened shadows and the fragrant air again 
invite to the loalh, the ride, the drive, or other 
active exercise. Then is heard the summons to 
a social reunion at the tea-table, after which the 
spirit-stirring music calls the young and the gay 
to the giddy whirl of the ball-room. Here plea- 



198 CHALYBEATE SPRINa. 

sure reigns supreme, the lieart-toned laugli, the 
witty word, the araiable repartee, all tell that 
those assembled here are just sipping the bubbles 
from the overflowing cup of joy. 

Nowhere else can such a scene be witnessed ; 
nowhere else can such a scene be more innocent 
than here. Thus flit away the glad hours until 
the waning night bids to calm repose. 

Such is, as it were, a shadowy outline of a day 
at the White Sulphur. 

But we cannot close this sketch without men- 
tioning another phase of society at the Springs, 
and one that must commend itself to every well 
ordered mind. We allude to the respectful ob- 
servance, by the company generally, of the Sab- 
bath day. Throughout this entire clay a profound 
quiet pervades the grounds, and the places of 
worship are thronged by full and attentive con- 
gregations. Nothing could better evidence the 
conservative influence of society here, than the 
respectful and reverential attention with which 
the vast concourse honor the sacred claims of the 
Sabbath. 

CHALYBEATE SPRING. 

About forty rods from the White Sulphur 
Spring, and near the road that leads to Lewis- 
burg, is a Chalybeate Spring, which is now being 
beneficially used by invalids. The existence of 
this iron water has long been known, but it is 



CHALYBEATE SPRING. 199 

only within the last few years that it attuacted 
sufficient attention to induce the proprietor to 
have it deepened, walled up, and properly en- 
closed. 

The water has not been analyzed, but there can 
be no doubt that the efficient medical material in 
it is iron, and that this is held in solution in the 
form of a carbonate, constituting the mildest, 
least offensive, and, ordinarily, the most efficient 
form in which ferruginous waters are found. 

I allude to this spring in connection w^itli the 
White Sulphur, because it is found immediately 
contiguous to it, and is used in connection with it 
to a considerable extent. 

For the last ten years, it has been much used 
by invalids, either in connection with the White 
Sulphur, or as an independent remedy, and its 
tonic effects in several cases, that have come 
under my observation, have been gratifying. 
Judging from the taste of the water and its 
kindly influences upon the stomach, I infer that it 
is, to a great degree, exempt from the irritating 
salts that impregnate the waters of limestone 
regions." 

It acts mildly as a diuretic, and slightly on some 
persons as an aperient, but its chief value must be 
attributed to its tonic powers. 



200 MINERAL WATERS OF VIRGINIA. 



CHAPTER IX. 

SALT SULPHUR SPRINGS. 

Situation and Early History — Analysis by Professor Eogers— 
Aj^plicaMlity of the Waters— Iodine or -New Spring — Analysis hy 
Dr. Stewart^ &c. 

These springs, three in number, are about 
twenty-four miles south from the White Sulphur, 
in the County of Monroe, and near Union, the seat 
of justice for that county. They are encircled by 
mountains on every side, — having Peters' Moun- 
tain to the south and east, the Alleghany to the 
north, and Swope's Mountain to the west, near 
the base of which are the three springs alluded to. 
This watering place has been a popular and profit- 
able resort for invalids for the last fifty years ; 
having always heretofore, as now, enjoyed a high 
reputation, alike for the virtue of its waters and 
the excellence of its accommodations. It is owned 
by Messrs. Erskine & Caruthers, worthy and 
enterprising proprietors, under whose personal 
management the establishment has been for many 
years, and who made the principal improvements 
at the place — which are both comfortable and 
extensive ; being sufficient for the accommodation 
of three hundred and fifty persons. 



SALT SULPHUE SPRINGS. 201 

The ^' Salt Suljoliur" x^roper was discovered by 
Erwin Benson, Esq., in 1805, when boring for 
salt water, which he was induced to believe might 
be found there, from the fact that, in old times, 
the spot had been a favorite " Lick " for deer and 
buffalo. This spring is neatly inclosed in a 
marble reservoir, two feet square, and about two 
feet ten inches deep, and is protected from the 
Aveather by a neat and comfortable ediiice. 

The following is the analysis of this water, as 
furnished by Professor Rogers : — • 

Temperature variable from 49° to 5G°. 

Solid matter procured, by evaporation, from 100 
cubic inches, weighed, after being dried at 212°, 
81*41 grains. 

* Quantity of each solid ingredient in 100 cubic 
inches, estimated as perfectly free from water : — 

1. Sulpliate of lime 36-755 grains. 

2. Siilpliate of magnesia 7"883 

3. Sulpliate of soda 9-682 

4. Carbonate of lime. 4-445 

5. Carbonate of magnesia 1-434 

6. Cliloride of magnesium 0-llG 

7. Chloride of sodiimi 0-683 

8. Cliloride of calcium 0-025 

9. Peroxide of iron, from proto-sulpliate. 0-042 

10. An azotized organic matter, blended 

with sulphur, about 4 

11. Earthy phosphates a trace 

12. Iodine. 



202 MINERAL WATERS OF VIRGINIA. 

Volume of each of tlie gases contained in a free 
state in 100 cubic inches : — 

Sulphuretted hydrogen .110 to I'SO cubic inches. 

Nitrogen 2.05 " 

Oxygen • 0.27 . " 

Carbonic acid.... 5-75 " 

The above analysis applies to the Iodine, or 
New Spring, as well as to the Upper, or Old 
Spring, as the following extract of a letter, from 
Professor Rogers to the proprietors, will show : — • 

^'1 inclose you a list of the ingredients in the 
Salt Sulphur water, which applies to the New as 
well as to the Old Spring, the former having 
rather a smaller amount of saline matter in 
general, though in some ingredients surpassing 
the other. It has been very minutely analyzed, 
and is the first of all the waters in which I was 
enabled to detect traces of Iodine, which it con- 
tains in larger amount than the Old Spring, and, 
indeed, than most of the other waters in which 
I have been so fortunate as to discover this 
material." 

The Iodine, or New Spring, was accidentally 
discovered by the proprietors in 1838, while 
engaged in opening a drain for the water of the 
^^ Salt," and was immediately deepened and 
inclosed in a marble reservoir, and covered by an 
appropriate building. Owing to a large deposit 
of sulphur in combination with some peculiar 



SALT SULPHUE SPRINGS. 203 

organic matter, which floats as a pellicle upon. the 
surface of the spring, this water is less limpid than 
that of the ^^Salt." Under an intense heat of 
the sun, it occasionally deposits a beautiful pink 
sediment upon the bottom and sides of the 
reservoir. In taste and smell, it much resembles 
the water of the other springs, but being ten 
degrees warmer, is less palatable to some persons. 
Its temperature varies from 62° to 68° Fah. 

The presence of a larger quantity of iodine in 
this spring, points it out as a superior agent in 
many affections for which iodine is successfully 
employed, particularly in scrofula, goitre, and 
some diseases of the skin. 

The Upper, or Old Spring , was discovered in 
1803^ by Alexander Hutcherson, Esq., who was 
searching for salt water on Indian Creek. It soon 
came into high reputation as a mineral water, and 
was the annual resort of a large company. The 
house now occupied as a hotel, and several of the 
old cabins, were erected at that early day. The 
water of this spring is now almost exclusively 
used for the baths ; the opening of the Salt 
Sulphur proper, whose waters are more strongly 
marked, having in a great degree superseded it as 
a drink. 

The water of the Salt Sulphur possesses all the 
sensible properties of the sulphur waters in 
general. '^ Its odor, for instance," says Dr. 
Mutter, ^' is very like that of a ' tolerable egg,' 



204 MINERAL WATERS OF VIRGINIA. 

and may, in certain states of the atmosphere, be 
perceived at some distance from the spring, and 
in taste it is cousin-german to a strong solution of 
Epsom salts and magnesia. In a short time^ 
however, strange to say, these disagreeable 
properties are either not observed, or become, on 
the other hand, attractive ; indeed, there is hardly 
an instance of an individual's retaining his 
original repugnance to them longer than three or 
four days, and some there are who become so 
excessively fond of the Avater as to give it the 
preference over any other liquids. Like most of 
the sulphurous, this water is perfectly transparent, 
and deposits a whitish sediment, composed of its 
various saline ingredients, mingled with sulphur. 
It is also for the most part placid ; occasionally, 
however, it is disturbed by a bubble of gas, which 
steals slowly to the surface, where it either 
explodes with a timid and dimpling smack, or is 
eagerly caught up by some care-worn and almost 
world-weary invalid as a gem from the treasury of 
Hygeia!" 

The Salt Sulphur water is remedial in all cases 
for which strong sulphur waters are successfully 
used ; and especially in cases that require active 
cathartic o]3eration. While its cathartic effects 
are more active than those of any other vv^ater in 
the geological region in which it exists, it is 
neither harsh nor violent ; gently clearing the 
alimentary canal without debilitating the patient, 



SALT SULPHUR SPRINGS. 205 

while it actively promotes the general secretions, 
invigorates the appetite, and promotes digestion. 
The cathartic effects of the water are so mild and 
certain that the stomach is never oppressed nor 
the bowels irritated ; -hut while the alimentary 
canal is being relieved, the functions of the system 
assume their physiological type, and the suspended 
causes of disease are gradually removed. 

In the extensive range of diseases, dependent 
upon visceral obstructions, the Salt Sulphur is 
eminently useful ; and in that particular form of 
simple Dyspepsia, in which constipation is a 
leading and troublesome symptom, I have found 
it to be signally efficacious. 

This water, like all our sulphur waters, will 
sometimes distinctly reduce the frequency and 
force of the pulse ; and while such effect upon 
the circulation is not characteristic of its constant 
action upon the economy, it is favorable to its 
sanative influence. As is the case with the White 
and other sulphur waters, this influence upon the 
circulation is not the effect of direct sedative 
action upon the heart and arteries, but of the 
sanative powers of the agent, as an alterative and 
deobstruent, in restoring the general economy to 
its true physiological type, and thus relieving 
the circulation from the causes that oppress it. 

Dr. Miltter, in an instructive pamphlet on the 
Salt Sulphur, published in 1850, recommends 
these waters in chronic affections of the Brain; in 
18 



206 MINERAL WATERS OF VIRGINIA. 

chronic diseases of the Bowels, Kidneys, Spleen, and 
Bladder ; in Neuralgia, as well as in the various 
affections termed nervous, such as hyjjochrondriaj 
hysteria, catalepsy, chorea, etc. 

He found them useful in sympathetic affections 
of the Chest, dependent upon some lesion of the 
chylopoietic viscera; but cautions against their 
use in all cases of tubercles, haemoptysis, or of 
great emaciation with diarrhoea. 

Chronic Splenitis, often a sequela of Southern 
fevers, is frequently cured by these waters. Chronic 
gastric irritation. Pyrosis, or water-brash, as well 
as Gastralgia, or nervous dyspepsia, is often 
relieved by the Salt Sulphur. 

Dr. Mutter found good effects from the waters 
in constipation of the hoioels, haemorrhoids, and in 
irritation of the mucous membrane of the kidneys, 
urethra, prostate gland^ and bladder. 

Beneficial effects are derived from their use in 
atonic leucorrhoea, amenorrhcea, and dysmenorrhea, 
when unconnected with general or local plethora. 

Like all other strong sulphur waters^ they are 
beneficial in chronic Bheumatism and Gout, as well 
as in Periostitis, and inflammation of the bones, 
and chronic diseases of the Shin. 

In reference to the manner of using sulphur 
waters. Dr. Mutter judiciously remarks, that '^a 
very injurious practice prevails at most of the 



SALT SULPHUR SPRINGS. 207 

watering places in this country. It is supposed 
by many that taking the water directly from the 
springs contributes very much to its efficacy, and, 
consequently, we find the sick and feeble, as well 
as the robust, sallying forth by break of day for 
this purpose. "^ * The water is undoubtedly more 
palatable when taken in this way, but it is not 
more efficacious than when drunk at the cabin." 
^^ Every invalid," he continues, '^should bear 
this in mind, particularly those who visit the 
White Sulphur Springs." 



The Salt Sulphur Iodij^e Sprixg- has attracted 
increased attention the last few years, and a recent 
analysis of its waters by Dr., David Stuart, of 
Baltimore, gives a sanction to medical anticipa- 
tions as to its peculiar virtues and appropriate 
applicability. The following are the results of 
Dr. S.'s chemical investigations : — 



IODINE SPRIKG. 

One wine gallon of the water contains : — 

Sulphuretted hydi-ogen 19-19 cubic inches 

Carbonic acid 34-60 " 

Oxygen 00-62 " 

Kitrogen 04-73 " 

Total gaseous contents 59-14 " 



208 



MINERAL WATERS OP VIRGINIA. 



SOLID CONTENTS OF ONE GALLON. 

Sulphate of magnesia 20*00 grains. 

Sulphate of soda 24-00 

Carbonate of lune 33'00 

Carbonate of magnesia 07*00 

Chloride of magnesium 00*28 

Chloride of sodium 01*28 

Chloride of calcium 00*56 

Silicic acid — 01*76 

Carbonate of potash 02*33 

Carbonate of soda 10*80 

Sulphate of lime 68*00 

Iodine 00*93 

Bromine 00*65 

Sesqui-oxide of iron 01*06 

Alumina 00*18 

Phosphate of soda and lithia 00*73 



Total solid contents 172*48 



Specific gravity, 1002-7 — reaction alkaline. 
Temperature 64 '75 to 65*50 Fahrenheit. 



This analysis presents this water as an interest- 
ing and somewhat peculiar medical agent, differ- 
ing in some respects from any of the sulphur 
springs in this region. 

The discovery of iodine in this water, some 
twelve years ago, by Professor Kogers, has led to 
its successful use in various disorders for which 
that article is known to be a reliable remedy. In 
addition to the diseases already mentioned for 
which the Salt Suljphur proper is advised, the 
Iodine Spring will be found especially serviceable 



RED SULPHUR SPRIGS. 209 

in the various glandular affections , mercurial 
rheumatisms , secondary syphilis, enlargements of 
the spleen^ hepatic disease, mesenteric obstruc- 
tions, and chronic exanthemata. 



CHAPTER X. 
EED SULPHUR SPRINGS. 



Situation and Improvements — Analysis — Adaptation to Diseases^ 
etc. — New River White Sulpliur Springs — Blue Sulphur Spring. 

The Red Sulphur Springs are in the southern 
portion of the County of Monroe, forty-two miles 
south from the White Sulphur. They are distant 
seventeen miles from the Salt, thirty-nine miles 
from the Sweet, and thirty-two miles from the 
Blue Sulphur. 

These springs have heen known and distin- 
guished as a watering place for more than fifty 
years. The improvements at the place are 
extensive and well-designed, combining elegance 
with comfort, and are sufficient for the accommo- 
dation of three hundred and fifty persons. 
18* 



210 MINERAL WATERS OE VIRGINIA. 

The water of the spring is clear and cool, its 
temperature being 54° Fahrenheit. 

The following is Professor Eogers's analysis of 
the Avater of this spring : 

"GASEOUS CONTENTS IN AN IMPERIAL GALLON. 

Sulpliuretted liyclrogen 4'54 cubic inclies. 

Carbonic acid 8-75 " 

Nitrogen 4-25 " 

'^ Solid contents of thirty-two cubic inches of 
water, gr. 1-25, consisting of sulphate of soda, 
lime and magnesia, carbonate of lime and muriate 
of soda. 

'^ Besides these ingredients, the water contains, 
in considerable quantity, a peculiar organic sub- 
stance, which, mingled with sulphur, is deposited 
on the sides of the spring, and seems to increase 
by a species of organic growth." 

Mr. Augustus A. Hayes, of Koxbury, Massa- 
chusetts, has also analyzed this water, and 
apparently with great care. The following are 
the results of his chemical examinations : 

^^ 50,000 grains (about seven pints) of this 
water afforded by slow evaporation in air at 200° 
F., a light yellowish-brown matter, which, after 
it had been carefully dried, weighed 20 56-100 
grs. At the temperature of 240° F., this residue 
becomes changed, and suffers a loss of weight, 
being reduced to 17"55 grs. 



KED SULPHUR SPRINGS. 211 



cc 



This residue contains the saline part of the 
water, and is composed of — ■ 

Silicious eartliy matter, containing traces of oxide of 

ii-on and alumina, probably suspended merely O'TO 

Sulphate of soda in a dry state 3-55 

wliicli forms with the water 802 grs. Glauber's salts. 

Sulphate of lime 0*47 

Carbonate of lime 4'50 

dissolved in carbonic acid 
Carbonate of magnesia 4-13 

dissolved in carbonic acid, and forming the ' fluid 

magnesia.' 
A peculiar substance, containing sulphur combined 

with organic matter 7*20 



20-55 



^^ There are traces of chlorine, or muriatic 
acid, in some specimens, hut at most only 0*03 of 
chloride of silver could he separated from 10,000 
grs. of water. This suhstance is rarely ahsent 
from natural waters, which have penetrated the 
earth. 

^^ The peculiar sulphur compound which forms 
a part of the saline contents of this water has 
never heen descrihed, if it has ever hefore heen 
met with. While in the natural state, and out of 
contact with atmospheric air, it is dissolved in 
the water^ and forms a permanent solution. Air, 
acids, and other agents separate it from the water, 
in the form of -a jelly, and alkaline carbonates, 
alkalies, water, and other agents redissolve it. 
It has no acid action on test fluids, but bears that 



212 MINERAL WATERS OF VIRGINIA. 

character with bases, and forms compounds 
analagous to salts. In its decomposition, am- 
monia is formed, and liydro-sulpliiiric acid is 
liberated ; or if beat be employed in tlie experi- 
ment, sulphur is separated. It combines with 
the oxide of silver, and forms a salt of a reddish- 
purple color, in the form of a flocculent precipitate, 
which dissolves in pure water ; with the oxide of 
lead, a yellowish-white powder ; and with the 
oxide of copper, a pale-blue salt in fine powder. 
In these compounds it remains unaltered, and 
may be separated from them and transferred to 
other bases. 

^' Mixed with a small quantity of water^ and 
exposed to the temperature of 80° F., it decom- 
poses, and emits a most offensive odor of putre- 
fying animal matter, with hydro-sulphuric acid 
gas. It is to this property that the hydro- 
sulphuric acid in the water is due, and to the 
oxidation of a part of this compound most of the 
sulphuric acid found in the water maybe referred." 

Mr. Hayes remarks, that ^^ Chemical experi- 
.ments do not show the medicinal properties of the 
substances operated on. But when a substance, 
the result of delicately balanced afSnities, gives 
in its decomposition an agent of powerful action 
on the animal system, we may conclude that it is 
an active ingredient, if found in a water possessed 
of high curative powers. I am disposed, there- 
fore, to consider the sulphur compound in this 



RED SULPHUR SPRINGS. 213 

water as the principal medicinal agent contained 
in it ; altliougli its action in combination with the 
other constituents may he necessary to produce 
the effects for which this water is so justly cele- 
brated. 

^^ The following results give in one view the 
composition of this water : — 

^^ Gaseous contents of a gallon, or 231 cubic 
inches of the Ked Sulphur Spring water — 

Carbonic acid 5-7o0 

Nitrogen ' &91G 

Oxygen 1-201 

Hydro-sulphuric acid 0-397 

14-364 

^^50,000 grs. (nearly seven pints) of this water 
contain dissolved as gases, (grain measure) — 

Carbonic acid 1245 

Nitrogen ,. 1497 

Oxygen 200 

Hydro-sulp. acid 86 

Grain measures of gases 3088 

^' 50,000 grs. of this water afford of — 

Silicious and eartby matter 0-70 

Sulphate of soda , 3-55 

Sulphate of lime 47 

Carbonate of lime 4-50 

-Carbonate of magnesia.. 4-13 

Sulphur compound 7*20 

Carbonic acid 2-71 

23-26 



214 MINERAL WATERS OF VIRGINIA. 

Mr. Hayes, from cliemical examinations, comes 
to the conclusion that the red color of the matter, 
which is deposited on the slabs, etc., etc., is that 
of moss or lichen, which finds its habitat in the 
viscid covering produced by the deposition of the 
sulphur compound. 

The peculiar and distinguishing reputation of 
this water, as a medicinal agent, is for diseases of 
the thoracic viscera, and, by some, it has been 
considered remedial in confirmed tubercular con- 
sumption. Dissenting entirely from this high 
claim for the water as a remedy in confirmed con- 
sicmptioUj my observations for many years enable 
me to award to it decided efiicacy in many cases of 
irritation of the pulmonary ^organs.* In sym- 
pathetic or translated affections of the lungs, 
whether that state be occasioned from disease of 
the digestive or chylopoietic viscera, or be depen- 
dent upon the retrocession of some habitual dis- 
charge, the water deserves to be regarded as a 
valuable remedj^ 



* In- a work just issued from the Pliiladelpliia press, entitled 
" The Mountain^^'' our volume is referred to as showing that this 
water cures " confirmed consumption.''^ We need scarcely say to 
our careful readers that it is a mistake to ascribe such an opinion 
to us ; and that we never held or taught that this, or any other 
sulphur water should be regarded as " curing " that, as we 
believe, incurable affection. We are satisfied that the error on 
the part of the author of "The Mountain" was entirely imin- 
tentional. 



RED SULPHUR SPRINGS. 215 

Dr. John Bell,* in treating of the therapeutics 
of mineral waters, remarks that, '' Sulphurous 
waters have heeli much lauded in what are vaguely 
called cJwonic diseases of the chesty and in which 
have been included, not only pulmonary catarrh 
and bronchitis, hut also pneumonia, pleurisy, 
asthma and phthisis itself. We may simplify the 
subject by fixing our attention on the chief patho- 
logical element in these different diseases, to 
which- our therapeutics, under the circumstances, 
should be directed. This is the chronic irritation 
and inflammation of the bronchial mucous mem- 
brane, in which mainly, if not solely, the medi- 
cation of these waters will be found serviceable in 
pectoral diseases. By restoring or moderating 
when excessive, and otherwise modifying its 
secretions, we may hope to remove simple bron- 
chitis itself, and to mitigate asthma and chronic 
pneumonia, congestion, and phthisis, in a certain 
stage of all of which diseases there is often a 
symptomatic or secondary bronchitis. On the 
lungs proper, in the morbid changes to which they 
are . subjected by chronic hepartization or by 
tubercular deposit, sulphurous waters not only 
fail to exert any sanative or controlling influence, 
but they prove absolutely deleterious ; and in 
confirmed phthisis, and even in incipient stage. 



* Mineral and Thermal Springs of tlie United States and 
Canada. 



216 MINERAL WATERS OF VIRGINIA. 

when accompanied witli febrile irritation ^ they 
accelerate the march of the disease. 

'^ It has been contended, that when such waters 
are serviceable in pectoral affections^ their salutary 
effects are obtained by revulsive action ; determina- 
tion to the skin, and increase of its perspiratory 
function, as well as diverting the fluids from the 
centre to the periphery. Such results are more 
likely to follow the use of thermal sulphurous 
waters, and still more readily and completely if 
they be employed at the same time as a bath. 
But, while admitting this vieAv, which to a consid- 
erable extent is the correct one, it ought not to be 
received to the exclusion of a belief in the directly 
expectorant operation of sulphurous waters. As 
eminently diffusible and reaching all membraneous 
tissues, so as to be compared to mercury itself, 
we cannot, witnessing the strong action of this 
remedy on the secretions of the skin,- deny to it 
those of the mucous membranes, which lines the 
air passages. 

'^^ We may, I think, explain by these two functional 
actions of expectoration and perspiration, under 
the use of moderate doses of the milder sulphur 
waters, the diminished frequency of the pulse and 
the abatement of febrile excitement, which have 
caused some of them to be regarded as sedatives, 
although in fact, these are bat secondary or 
indirect results ; sequences, at least of previous 
excitement. This order of succession of morbid 



RED SULPHUR SPRINGS. 217 

plienomena is not unusual after tlie use of admitted 
stimulants in the class of purgatives and diuretics, 
as well as when other diaphoretics and expecto- 
rants besides the sulphurous are administered." 
This summary of the applicability and modus 
-operandi of sulphurous waters in pectoral affec- 
tions, accords so entirely with my own observations 
and judgment, that I insert it wdth the full 
concurrence of my approbation. 

The late Dr. Huntt of Washington, in his 
pamphlet on the Red Sulphur, remarks, that 
^^on examining the visitors laboring under pul- 
monary disease, I observed that all those patients 
who drank the water so as to act freely on the 
bowels, far any length of time, did not improve 
in their health, because active purging is not 
proper for the lungs in this .disease. The water 
must be drunk in such quantities as to act freely 
on the kidneys. There seems to be an intimate 
association' between the lungs and the kidneys, 
and the kidneys seem to be the great emunctories 
by which the lungs are relieved in all pulmonary 
diseases. This idea has been repeatedly suggested 
to me in my attendance on patients laboring 
under this disease. On inquiring into their 
condition, they have frequently said, ^ I feel much 
better to-day ; I have had a most copious flow of 
urine, which has afforded me great relief.' This 
view of the connection between the lungs and the 
kidneys has been confirmed by witnessing the 
19 



218 MINERAL WATERS OF VIRGINIA. 

diuretic effects of the Ked Sulphur water in pul- 
monary diseases. I have a friend, who is a 
physician, and who has labored more or less, 
under pulmonary disease for twenty years. He 
informed me that whenever his lungs were dis- 
turbed by irritation he always resorted to ^cooling 
diuretic medicines for relief.' 

'' There were but few persons laboring under 
the third or last stage of tuberculous disease, who 
visited the Eed Sulphur this season, and among 
those few, there was scarcely a case that derived 
any advantage from the use of the water. When 
tuberculous disease arrives at this stage, and the 
constitution is broken down, it is not only useless 
but cruel to send the patient to the Ked Sulphur. 
I am sorry to say, that several of my patients in 
this condition, by my advice, visited the Eed 
Sulphur this season, and I witnessed the bad 
effects of the water in their cases^ as well as in 
the cases of others of a similar character. They 
were laboring under that peculiar irritation, and 
perhaps ulceration, of the bowels, so common in 
this stage of the disease. They were unable to 
drink but a small quantity of the water, and the 
consequence was, that the bowels were purged and 
griped, the secretion of the kidneys was not 
increased, and the patient grew worse dail}^ 

^'^The Ked Sulphur has been considered 
peculiarly adapted to the cure of pulmonary 
diseases, and it is true that it has a most beneficial 



RED SULPHUR SPRINGS. 219 

influence in most cases of this disease ; brut its 
good effects equally extend to all cases of subacute 
inflammation, whether seated in the stomach, 
liver, spleen, intestines, kidneys, bladder, and 
most particularly in the mucous membrane. 

^^ It is also used with good effects in chronic 
bowel complaints, leucorrhcea, gleet, catarrh of 
the bladder, and in some forms of uterine 
derangement. 

'^ Many persons arrive at the Ked Sulphur, who 
are not prepared to use the water, in consequence 
of bigh inflammation, or congestion of the lungs, 
or other organs, attended with pain in the side, 
constriction at the breast, or hot and restless 
nights, with a quick, sharp pulse ; all such cases 
must have the vascular excitement subdued 
before the water can be taken with any advan- 
tage." 

Dr. Huntt gives the following directions for the 
use of the water : — 

^' If the system should be too plethoric, or too 
much excited, the use of the water should be 
postponed until the excitement shall be reduced 
to a proper state. Commence by taking one glass 
of water at bed-time, and one before breakfast ; 
after a few days, take two glasses at bed-time, and 
two before breakfast, one at 11 o'clock a. m., and 
one at 5 p. m.; this quantity will generally operate 



220 MINERAL WATERS OF VIRGINIA. 

freely on the bowels ; if it should fail to produce 
this effect, a little common salt, magnesia, or 
cream of tartar may he added. If it is desired to 
act on the kidneys, increase the quantity of 
water to three or four glasses between a light 
supper and bed-time, and the same quantity 
between daylight in the morning and breakfast- 
time, two glasses at noon, and one or two glasses 
about 5 o'clock p. M., taking care to exercise 
freely after drinking. The most proper periods 
for using the water are, at night before bed time, 
and in the morning before breakfast-time." 

Dr. B. Chrisman, a well qualified physician, 
and favorably known to many visitors to the Ked 
Sulphur, and who once resided there as a medical 
adviser during the watering seasons, has, in 
response to my request, furnished the following 
statement of his observations of the use of these 
waters during the season of 1857-58 : — 

*^ When T first went to the Eed Sulphur to 
practice my profession, I had but poor hopes of 
realizing any confirmed proof of its really 
valuable healing powers. I silently observed its 
effects upon visitors afilicted with la7yngitis, 
jpharyngitis , tracheitis, aphonia and phthisis in 
many of their phases. Some were bad cases^ with 
night' sweats, emaciation, diarrhoea, hectic acerba- 
tions, obstinate coughs, profuse expectoration,- 
with general debility and rapid feeble pulse. In 
several cases I saw such amendment from the 



RED SULPHUR SPRINGS. 221 

use of the waters as surprised me; consequently, 
my opinion as to its efficacy underwent a revolu- 
tion, and I now regard the Eed Sulphur as a 
medicinal Mecca, worthy the pilgrimage of the 
consumptive, who can conveniently make it ; for 
to such^ it affords not only comfort, but solid 
hope, except in the last and worst stages of the 
disease. 

*^' I was invited to examine the lungs of one of 
my acquaintances. Upon percussing the chest, I 
found flatness, positive dullness of sound over one 
entire lung. Auscultation evinced scarce any 
vesicular murmur, and very little air entered that 
lung ; hectic twice daily, pulse about one hundred, 
sometimes more frequent ; complexion very sallow, 
etc. AYhat was I conscientiously to do ? I 
thought death to be likel}^ approaching. Should 
I advise an immediate trip homeward to a distant 
Southern State, in the hot weather ? I determined 
to trust to Providence and the waters ; and in a 
short time I saw this person so far recovered as to 
run down a long embankment like a child, and to 
laugh until the area around resounded to the 
peals. 

" In another case which I examined, the physi- 
cal signs were dullness on percussion from apex to 
the centre of the lung, scarcely any vesicular 
murmur ; prolonged respiration and blowing 
sound ; cavernous respiration and jpectoriloque at 
one point. I diagnosed a large dry cavity ; feeble, 
19* 



222 MINEEAL WATERS OF VIRGINIA. 

palo^ emaciated ; pulse above a hundredj SQme- 
times one hundred and twenty, vomiting me'jil^s, 
hectic daily, night-sweats, diarrhcBa, and haema- 
turia. What was I then to do ? I could not 
advise her to return to her home to die ; the water 
afforded a better hope. In ten days this lady was 
taking healthful walks, and soon, good-Samaritan- 
like, she was visiting the sick, dispensing such 
cheer and comfort as few could give. 

^'^I found much benefit from the soothing 
effects of the Avater in neuralgia, in the hysteroid 
affectrons as well as in nervous palpitations of the 
heart, etc. Its influence upon the pulse was often 
noticed. One gentleman assured me of a fall of 
sixteen beats in the minute ; and in another 
instance, I heard of twenty-five ; but I am induced 
to believe that it is only gradually a7id by sloio 
rees that it effects a reduction of the pulse. 
You desire, doubtless, to know in what 
diseases this water is adequate to a perfect cure. 
I think in cases of chronic inflammation or con- 
gestion of the mucous surfaces of the throat, lungs, 
stomach, bowels, and genito-urinary organs. 

''Throat disease. — I can report four or five cases 

cured. One, a gentleman aged sixty, with hectic 

, fiushes, bad cough, expectoration of viscid mucus, 

/ pulse often a hundred ; remained four weeks at 

the springs J — entirely well. 

"Second. A young gentleman who had a 
cough, emaciation, expectoration of viscid mucus, 



a 



KED SULPHUR SPRINGS. 223 

etc.; stayed a fortnight. I have seen liim since, — 
quite well. 

'^A gentleman, from reading aloud, liad cougli, 
swelling of the throat in a slight degree, expecto- 
ration, debility, etc.; duration of the disease, -six 
or eight months ; reports himself well. I might 
say the same of several others similarly affected. 

^^Broncliitis, — A lady, duration of disease one 
year, cough, night-sweats, emaciation, loss of color 
and strength, congestion of the fauces, mucous 
rales slightly at the top of the left lung, no 
dullness, ha9morrhage slight and occasional ; 
reported quite well. 

^'Another case. — Duration four years, occasional 
slight ha3morrhage, no dullness on percussion, 
scarcely any rales, vesicular murmur heard over 
the chest generally, palpitations of the heart, 
dehility, diarrhoea, rapid pulse ; reported much 
improved. 

"Third case. — A young gentleman of Phila- 
delphia, from exposure to cold had alia3morrhage, 
health remained bad, and was a source af 
uneasiness to his friends. He came to the Ked 
Sulphur, remained awhile, and was much 
benefited ; he has gained flesh and strength, and 
Avill return to spend this winter by way of 
protection against a relapse. 

" I saw one case of chronic diarrhoea entirely 
cured. 

" Two cases of vicarious hfemorrhage from the 



224 MINEEAL WATERS OF VIRGINIA. 

lungs : one very frequent and profuse, the other 
slight and occasional, (with derangement of 
stomach and howels,) dependent, as I conceived, 
upon uterine derangement; one was cured,, the 
other relieved." 



NEW RIVER WHITE SULPHUR SPRINGS. 

This name is given to a recently improved 
sulphur spring on New river, in the County of 
Giles, a few miles Southwest from the Eed 
Sulphur. This property has been improved 
within the last five or six years, for the enter- 
tainment of visitors. 

The waters of this fountain have not been 
analyzed, but they belong to the great Sulphur 
class, so abundantly found in that geological 
region, and, doubtless, will prove valuable in such 
cases as are usually successfully treated by mild 
Sulphur waters. 

Their situation is in a wild, romantic and 
interesting mountain region, affording tine facili- 
ties for the sportsman in the amusements of 
hunting and fishing. They are in the immediate 
neighborhood of the celebrated Salt Pond, an 
interesting natural curiosity itself, and where 
surrounding mountain heights afford the most 
extensive and imposing mountain scenery in 
America. 

These Springs may be reached by stage or 



BLUE SULPHUR SPRING. 225 

private conveyance from the Virginia and 
Tennessee Railroad , at Newbern or Christiansburg, 
or from the Red, Salt, or Montgomery White 
Sulphur Springs. 

THE BLUE SULPHUR SPRING. 

Twenty-three miles west from the White Sul- 
phur, and for several years a well improved and 
popular watering j)lace, has been discontinued as 
such. Several years before the war its elegant 
buildings were appropriated to the use of a Bap- 
tist College; and during the war, they were all 
burned. 

The water of this spring is very good, partaking 
of the general characteristics of the leading sul- 
]3hur waters of West Virginia. When the Spring 
interests of that country shall revive, as it is hoped 
it may do, this water will probably be brought 
again into popular use. 



226 MINERAL WATERS OF VIRGINIA. 



CHAPTER XI. 

SWEET SPKINGS. 

Situation and Early Hutory — Former and Present ImproTements 
— Analysis — Effects of the Water's — Adaptation of tJie Waters as 
a Beverage, and as a Bath, &g., &c. 

The Sweet Springs are situated in a charming 
valley in the eastern extremity of Monroe County. 
They are seventeen miles southeast from the 
White Sulphur^ and twenty-two east from the 
Salt Sulphur. 

These springs were discovered in 1Y64, before any 
of the other mineral waters in this section of the 
State were known. In. 1^74, they had attracted 
so much attention, as to he analyzed by Bishop 
Madison, then President of William and Mary 
College. 

The beautiful valley, in which the spring is 
situated, is about ^nq miles in length, and from 
one-half to three-fourths of a mile in width, and 
is bounded on the south by the lofty Sweet Spring 
Mountain, and on the north by the Alleghany. 
The spring and bath are situated in the lower 
end of a small hollow or valley, that makes out 
from the base of the Sweet Spring Mountain, from 
which the ground gradually swells on either side. 



SAVEET SPEIXGS. 227 

Contiguous to the spring is a grove of a few. old 
natives of the forest, that have fortunately escaped 
the axe of the spoiler, whichj together with a fine 
sodding of grass j give the means of a pleasant 
promenade in good weather. 

The earlier improvements of the place were of 
a rude but comfortable character ; they have now, 
for the most part, given way to buildings of a 
high order of architectural merit, and attractive 
in ever}^ respect. The accommodations at present 
are ample for six or seven hundred persons, and it 
is the intention of the proprietor soon to enlarge 
them in the same style to double the existing 
capacity. 

The Batlilng-liouse is a large, tasteful, and 
elegant structure ; and the separate reservoirs, for 
the use of ladies and gentlemen, are of ample size, 
and admirably arranged to give every comfort to 
the bathers. 

The temperature (Bell) of the Sweet Spring is 
73° Fall., the same as that which, in England, by 
a strange bluuder, is called Bristol Hot Well. 
There is considerable resemblance between the 
two in other respects, as well in the evolution of 
carbonic acid, as in the earthy and saline matters 
held in solution. In the Virginia spring, however, 
iron has been detected ; whereas the Bristol Hot 
Well has none in its composition. 



228 MINERAL WATERS OF VIRGINIA. 

By the analysis of Kowelle, one quart of" the 
Sweet Spring water contains : — 

Saline substances in general 12 to 15 grains. 

Earthy substances 18 to 24 " 

Iron i to 1 grain. 

The saline substances are sulphate of magnesia, 
muriate of soda, and muriate of lime, with a little 
sulphate of lime. The earthy matter consists of 
sulphate of lime, a small portion of carbonate of 
magnesia and lime, with a small portion of sili- 
cious earth. 

Professor William B. Eogers, late of the Uni- 
versity of Virginia, in the course of his geological 
survey of the State, analyzed the waters of the 
Sweet Spring, with the following results : — 

1st. Solid matter procured by evaporation from 
one hundred cubic inches, 32 '67. 

A portion of this is combined with water. 

2d. Quantity of each solid ingredient, estimated 
as perfectly free from water, in one hundred cubic 
inches: — 

Sulphate of lime 5-703 

Sulphate of magnesia 4-067 

Sulphate of soda 2-746 

Carbonate of lime 13-013 

Chloride of sodium 0-060 

Chloride of magnesium 0-136 

Chloride of calcium 0*065 

Peroxide of iron (Sesquioxide) 0-061 

Silica 0-075 

Earthy phosphate a trace 



SWEET SPRINGS. 229 

3d. Voliimo of cacli of the gases contained in a 

free, state in one hundred cubic inches of the 

water : — 

Carbonic acid 37*17 

Nitrogen 1-86 

Oxygen .a trace 

Sulphuretted hydrogen, a trace, too small to be measured. 

4th. Composition of one hundred cubic inches of 
the mixed gases rising in bubbles in the spring : — 

Nitrogen 71-7 

Carbonic acid 28-3 

The chief distinguishing feature of this w^ater is 
the predominance of the carbonic acid (fixed air) 
which it containSj and it is properly regarded as 
the best example of the acidulous w\aters that is 
found in our country. 

Few mineral waters have acquired such fashion- 
able and well-merited celebrity as the Sweet 
Springs. The name is calculated to convey 
erroneous impressions of their taste, Avhich is like 
a solution of a small quantity of a calcareous or 
magnesian carbonate. The excess of carbonic 
acid givesj however; the water a briskness, pro- 
ductive of a very different effect on the palate 
from what an imperfect mixture of the earths 
would produce. 

The first effects of this water, due to its tempera- 
ture and gaseous contents, when drunk, are a feel- 
ing of warmth at the stomach, with a sensation of 
fullness of the head, and some giddiness. Taken at 
20 



230 MINERAL WATERS OF VIRGINIA. 

stated intervals in moderate quantity, it will pro- 
duce a moisture on the skin, and increase the flow 
of urine. If the stomach he in a good state, it gives 
additional appetite, and imparts fresh vigor to 
the system. Its operations on the howels vary at 
first ; hut, after a more protracted use, it will 
generally be found to increase a costive habit. 

The Sweet Spring water is serviceable in the 
varieties of dyspepsia accompanied by gastrodynia 
or spasm, with pains occurring at irregular 
intervals, and heart-burn, where the extremities 
are cold and the skin torpid. In secondary 
debility of the digestive canal, from the exhausting 
heats of summer, or in chronic diarrhoea and 
dysentery, v/ithout fever, or not sustained by 
hepatic inflammation, much good will be produced 
by the internal use of these waters. 

If much gastric irritation, or evident phlogosis 
of the liver be present, with a parched skin and 
other phenomena of fever, it will be better to 
premise one or two small bleedings, followed by 
the use of a blue pill at night, and a tumblerful 
or two of the water, to which has been added a 
teaspoonful of Epsom salts, or twice the quantity 
of calcined magnesia, early in the morning. 

The harassing cough to which young persons 
are occasionally subject, and which often has its 
origin in an enfeebled state of the stomach, or in 
scrofulous habits from the enlargement of the 
bronchial glands, as also the tussis humoralis of 



SWEET SPRINGS. 231 

old people, will all be materially benefited by 
the use of these waters. ' The relief afforded in 
such cases as these has usually given Bristol Hot 
Well its reputation in the cure of pulmonary 
consumption. 

Females who have become enervated by long 
confinement, or from nursing their children, and 
whose constitutions have -suffered for want of 
exercise and fresh air, will be greatly benefited 
by the use of these waters, internally and as a 
bath. 

In subacute rheumatism , and in neuralgic 
attacks, the Sweet Spring bath is often eminently 
useful. In the closing stages of acute rheumatism, 
the patient is often harassed with a lingering 
irritability of bis system with tenderness, pain 
and inability in the diseased joints, sometimes 
attended with slight feverishness, especially 
toward the close of the day. 

In sucb cases, while hot or warm bathing would 
be injurious, the baths of the Sweet or Eed Sweet 
Springs may be resorted to with the best effects. 
The use of the spout ^ in such cases is valuable, 
by placing the diseased part under the falling 
water, and allowing it to receive the dash for 
a short time. 

A very efficacious way of applying this water 
to the surface is by douche — -the stream being 
directed to the part in which the disease is 
situated — wherever there is '^ augmented heat 



232 MINERAL WATERS OF VIRGINIA. 

and fixed pain, as over the stomacli, or liver, or 
abdomen generally, above the pubis, or on the 
loins and sacrum; also to the joints, when the 
violence of inflammation has not yet subsided, 
nor passed entirely into the chronic state. If the 
irritation of the stomach forbids the drinking of 
the water, douching the epigastrium would form 
a good preparative .for its use in this way. 
Lumbago, with some evening fever, Morosis or 
jiuoT alhus, ^N\i\\ heat and pain at the loins, would 
be benefited by douching this part. 

^'^ As we should have inferred from the excess 
of carbonic acid, and the presence of earthy 
carbonates in the water, it is useful in calculous 
and nephritic complaints," 

The Sweet Spring waters, internally and ex- 
ternally employed, are adapted to a^ large circle 
of cases. As a tonic, in cases of pure debility, 
they may be used with great confidence, always, 
however, regarding this as an aphorism, that 
tliey are contra-indicated, and sliould he withheld in 
all cases in ivhich there is positive congestion in any 
of the vital organs. 

The first sensation on immersion in the Sweet 
Spring bath is a slight shock, which speedily 
passes off, leaving the bather with the most 
agreeable sensations while he disports himself in 
the sparkling pool. 

The freedom and advantage with which this 
bath has been used by aged persons is evidence of 
its general safety. 



SWEET SPRINGS. 233 

In using tlie bath, ^^tlie chief points to be 
attended to are, that the skin should not be moist 
or cold with perspiration , nor that there shall be 
general chill , nor the languor that follows 
excessive muscular action. The stomach also 
should be nearly empty, or, at least, not actively 
engaged in its work of digestion." Many persons 
are injudicious in remaining too long in the bath. 
From two to ten minutes will embrace periods 
adapted to every condition, and only the most 
robust should remain in the last mentioned time. 
In a large majority of cases, indeed in all cases in 
Avhich there is much general debility, from tiuo to 
five minutes, according to circumstances, will 
embrace the proper periods for remaining in the 
bath. It is often advantageous to bathe twice or 
thrice a day, and this can be done safely in all 
cases, provided the jjatient does not remain too 
•long in the water at any one time. 

Dr. Woodville, who resides at the springs, in 
a communication he has been so kind as to 
address to me, remarks that the tlierapeuiic action 
of '^the water is that of a tonic, alterative, 
powerful diuretic, and occasional cathartic. From 
the union of so many purgative salts, we would 
naturally infer its cathartic action to be constant ; 
this, however, is not always the case, as in 
frequent instances the opposite condition is the 
result." 

As a tonic, he states that it is successfully used 
20- 



234 MINERAL WATERS OP VIRGINIA. 

in chronic diseases connected with dehility ; as, 
for example, in certain forms of dyspepsia, 
amenorrhoea, chorea and hysteria ; in chronic diar- 
rhoea and dysentery, and in passive haemorrhage. 
In dropsy, from its union of tonic and diuretic 
qualities, it is eminently useful. 

In sterility, especially when connected with 
memhranous menstruation, it is looked upon 
almost as a specific. 

Ill those cases where the use of iron is peculiarly 
indicated it acts well. The amount of iron held 
in solution is not large, hat in the action of 
mineral waters upon the animal economy, Dr. 
W. properly remarks, the effects are not propor- 
tionate to the quantity of any single ingredient. 

^^ In this matter nature seems to he somewhat 
Homoeopathic, and it may he, that the iron heing 
held in perfect solution hy means of an excess of 
carbonic acid, its full operation is obtained." 

Dr. Woodville remarks, that in some forms of 
nephritic disease the water is highly beneficial, 
and in calculous affections, as we would naturally 
conolude, from an examination of its analysis, no 
mineral water could promise greater benefit. 
Observation, he remarks, has shown this to be 
the case in a remarkable degree, as many persons, 
who have been once relieved, are in the habit of 
returning annually to the springs to prevent a 
recurrence of their malady. 

In cases of bilious derangement, Dr. W. con- 




>M 




SWEET SPRINGS. 235 

siders that from its stimnlatiiig properties, it may 
often be used to advantage, and that, for persons 
enervated by a long residence in warm climates, 
no mineral water can produce happier results. 



CHAPTEK XII. 

SWEET CHALYBEATE, OR RED SWEET SPRINGS. 

Their Analysis — Nature, and 3Iedicinal Adaptations of the waters 
as a beverage and a hath — Artificial icarm laths, etc. 

OiN^'E mile north of the Sweet Springs, on the 
road leading to the White Sulphur, and just 
within the southern border of Alleghany County, 
are the Pied Sweet Springs. 

This property was originally owned and im- 
proved b}'" Mr. Philip Kodgers, who for many 
years kept the old Sweet Springs. About the 
year 1845, it became the property of John E. 
Sampson, Esq., who occupied it for several years 
and still further improved it. It then passed into 
the hands of Mr. C.'Bias, formerly of Memphis, 
Tennessee, who, during the war, sold it to the 
present proprietor, Mr. Kelly. 



236 MINERAL WATERS OE VIRGINIA. 

. This property, embracing about Ij'IOO acres of 
land, affords one of the most productive farms in 
the KState — a very great convenience to a spring 
establishment in reference to its supplies. 

The improvements subservient to the springs are 
spacious, well-designed and comfortable, and are 
suflicient for the accommodation of from three to 
four hundred persons. Among them are well- 
designed and spaciou3 lathing pools for gentlemen 
and ladies, each affordiing a douche from the use 
of which the bather may often derive most essential 
benefit. 

With other improvements to be brought into 
use the present year, are ladies' and gentlemen's 
bathing rooms fitted up for receiving hot or luarm 
baths of any desired temperature. 

There are two medicinal springs at this estab- 
lishment, the one a few paces below the hotel, 
essentially the same, both in quality and tem- 
perature, with the old Sweet Springs ; indeed, it 
may be regarded as identically the same water. 
The other, some forty rods, perhaps, above thok 
hotel, is in many respects like it, but containing 
a mucli larger quantity of iron, which, being 
abundantly deposited in the form of a red pre- 
cipitate, has given it the name of Bed Spring. 

The water of the Bed Spring^ which is the 
characteristic water of the place, and most relied 
upon both for drinking and bathing, issues from 
beneath heavy and irregular limestone arches, just 



SWEET SPRINGS. 23*7 

at tlie head of a narrow cove formed by a pro- 
jecting hill on one side, and on the other hy large 
masses of porous stone, probably deposited there 
from the Sweet Spring water, which once flowed 
in this direction. 

There are here three fountains, separated by 
narrow stone partitions, but all running into one 
common sluice. The upper and boldest of these 
fountains is about two degrees colder than the 
two lower ones, and evidently contains less of 
ferruginous matter. The water issuing from all 
of them is probably two hundred and fifty gallons 
in a minute. 

The water of the Bed Sirring has been twice 
analyzed, first by Eowelle, and then by Professor 
Rogers. According to Eowelle, one quart of this 
water contains — 

Carbonate of lime 4 grains 

Carbonate of magnesia 3 " 

Carbonate of ii'on 2 " 

Silex 1 grain. 

Sulphate of Magnesia 1 " 

Muriate of soda i " 

Iron combined 1 " 

Carbonic acid. 

The following is the result of an analysis by 
Professor Kogers, of this water : 

1st. Solid matter, procured by evaporation from 
one hundred cubic inches^ weighed, after being 
greatly dried at 112°, 40-76. 

A portion of this is combined water. 



238 MINERAL WATEIiS OF VIRGINIA. 

2d. Quantity of each solid ingredient estimated 
as perfectly free from water. In one hundred 
cubic inches : 

Sulphate of lime 14-233 

Sulphate of magnesia 3-107 

Sulphate of soda 1*400 

Carbonate of lime.... 1-166 

Chloride of sodium 0-037 

Chloride of magnesium 0-680 

Chloride of calcium..,., 0-010 

Sesquioxide of iron O'SSO 

Organic matter in small quantities. 
Iodine, a mere trace. 

The iron is no doubt dissolved in the water as a 
carbonate. 

3d. Volume of each of the gases contained in a 
free state, in one hundred cubic inches of the 
water : 

Carbonic acid. 46-10 cubic inches 

Nitrogen ,..-. 2-57 " 

Oxygen -20 " 

Sulphuretted hydrogen, a trace, too small to be measured. 

4th. Composition of one hundred cubic inches 

of the mixed gases rising in bubbles in the spring : 

Nitrogen 62-5 

Carbonic acid o 37-5 

The temperature of the Ked Spring water, as it 

issues from three different headsj^is from 75° to 

79°. Frequent examinations of this spring with 

a thermometer induce me to believe that its tem- 

i:)erature is slightly variable, never exceeding, 

however, one or two degrees of variation. 



SWEET SPRINGS. 239 



The analyses of tlie Red Sweet and Sweet Spring 
waters, by the same chemist, show that they con- 
tain essentially the same ingredients, but in 
difterent proportions, both the salts and the gases 
being more abundant in the former. The chief 
difference in. the medicinal effect of the two w^aters 
is probably owning to the larger quantity of iron 
held in solution by the Red Sw^eet. While the 
Sweet Spring contains of iron 0-061 grains in one 
hundred cubic inches of its w^ater, the Red Sweet 
in the same amount of water contains 0-320, or 
about four-fifths in excess. This goes, so far as 
analysis can be satisfactory, to prove its higher 
tonic power. The iron in this water exists in the 
form of a carbonate, held in solution by carbonic 
acid gas, constituting the mildest, and, at the 
same time, the most efficient preparation of our 
ferruginous waters. 

While the carbonic acid gas in the Red Sweet is 
41-10 grains against oT'lT in the Sweety the car- 
bonates as a whole largely prevail in the latter. 
Again, wliile the sulphate of lime is much the 
largest in the Red Sweet, the sulphates of mag- 
nesia and soda, botli aperient in their character, 
decidedly predominate in the Sweet Spring waters. 
It may be noted that iodine, in small quantity, is 
found in the Red Sweet, and not in the Sweet ; 
but its quantity is doubtless very small, and I am 
not aw^are of any peculiar effects of the water that 
can, w^ith certainty, be attributed to this agent. 



240 MINERAL WATERS OF VIRGINIA. 

It may, possibly, exert some beneficial influence 
as a tonic in combination with tbe other ingre- 
dients. From a review of the analyses of these 
two interesting waters, as well as from observa- 
tion of their effects on disease, it w^ould not be 
very inaccurate to say that the Ked is the Sweet 
Spring water with a strong iron base. But 
medical men, who should look closely into the 
peculiarities of remedial agents, will find upon 
careful scrutiny of these, that the difference in 
the amount and combination of their materials 
must modify, to some extent, their therapeutical 
agency upon the human system, and that, accord- 
ing to the practical object they wish to effect, they 
should select one or the other of them. 

As a general rule, it is fallacious to adopt the 
analysis of a mineral water as a guide in its ad- 
ministration. Although an analysis, as correct as 
can be obtained in the present state of chemical 
science, is an important assistant in understanding 
the general nat^ire of remedial waters, and in 
aiding in the formation of general conclusions in 
relation to them, still actual observation of the 
peculiar effects of these agents is greatly more 
satisf^ictory, and far more to be relied upon. 
Mineral waters often produce effects upon the 
animal economy that are not indicated by their 
analyses, and, in some cases, they produce results 
that are directly contra-indicated. But, in refer- 
ence to these particular waters, there seems to 



SWEET SPRINGS. ' 241 

be quite a concurrence between the indications 
afforded by their analyses and actual observation 
as to tlieir effects. 

With both of these lights before us, we are 
forced to regard the Ked Spring water as being 
more decidedly tonic in its influences upon the 
system than the water of the Sweet Spring, and 
somewhat more exciting, too ; hence, all the 
cautions that have been urged in reference to the 
contra-indications of the use of the Sweet Spring 
water, apply even with more force as to the use of 
this. 

From the same lights, we also learn that, as a 
very gentle aperient_, and a mild and somewhat 
less exciting tonic, the Sweet Springs have the 
preference, and especially in such cases as do not 
admit or require the use of chalybeates. The 
diuretic effect is about the same from the use of 
either water. 

These general principles may, to some extent, 
I hope, indicate the class ^f cases that will be 
most benefited by one or the other of these 
springs. But it must be confessed that the subject 
is sometimes an intricate one, requiring a full 
knowledge of the case^ with a careful comparative 
estimate of the powers of the two w^aters, to de- 
cide with certainty under the use of which the 
patient will* be most benefited. There is, how- 
ever, a large class of cases that will be essentially, 
if not equally benefited by the use of either of 
21 



242 MINERAL WATERS OF VIRGINIA. 

these waters. To sucli cases as require tlie use of 
the iron tonics, the Ked Sweet water is peculiarly 
vfell adapted, and may be prescribed with great 
confidence. 

Both internally, and as a bath, the Eed Sweet 
waters are adapted to numerous diseases. As a 
tonic in cases of nervous debility, or of general 
prostration, the result of prior violent disease, 
they may be used with great confidence. In 
dyspepsia, particularly ivlien connected with gastro- 
dynia, and irregular pains in 'the stomach, with 
want of tone in the alimentary canal, they may 
be advantageously employed. In Gastralgia, or 
nervous dyspepsia, after the force of the disease 
has been softened down by the use of medicines, 
or alterative mineral waters, they deserve the 
highest commendation. 

Cases of chronic diarrhoea have been cured by 
the Ked Sweet waters, after other springs, more 
commonly recommended for that disease, have 
failed to give relief. 

Simple debility of the uterine, and urinary 
functions, is very generally benefited by these 
waters. Spermatorrhoea, and that peculiar nervous 
prostration connected with excessive or improper 
indulgences, are very happily treated by them, 
where regard is had to the state of the system in 
connection with their use. They are profitably 
prescribed in debility resulting from exhausting 
discharges, provided such discharges have left no 



SWEET SPRIXGS. 243 

seat of irritation to wliicli general excitement 
may cause a rapid afflux of fluids with increased 
sensibility. 

Ladies who are laboring under debility from 
lono' confinement ornursiDo\ — those whose health 
has become impaired from want of exercise in the 
open air, as well as those who have been enervated 
by leucm-rlioea J or other exhausting causes^ vrili be 
greatly benefited by using the water and bath. 

In Neuralgic affections, unattended with organic 
lesion or obstruction, this water is used with very 
general success, and rarely fails to ameliorate or 
cure such cases. The writer has great cause to 
speak favorably of this spring in neuralgia, not 
only from its success in a large number of patients 
for whom he has advised its use, but especially in 
his own case. In the summer of 18-12, he spent 
several weeks here, using the water internally and 
as a bath, for a sciatic neuralgia, under the painful 
effects of which he had been entirely prostrated for 
several months. To describe the great and almost 
instant relief which he derived, would demand 
the language of enthusiasm. For more than two 
months he had been unable to turn in his bed, 
and, during all this time, was under an agony of 
sufl^ering which none but a neuralgic can compre- 
hend. 

Before using the water, he underwent a three 
weeks' course of preparation at the AVhite 
Sulphur, which, while it did not relieve the pain^ 



244 MINERAL WATERS OF VIRaiNIA. 

brouglit his general system into a favorable condi- 
tion for the use of tonics. Unable to sit np, he 
was conveyed lying upon a bed in a carriage, to 
this place, and immediately entered upon the use 
of the water. The effects were as remarkable as 
they were prompt and happy. In a word, he here 
found a speedy and effectual remedy for this 
Protean and painful disease, after all other 
remedies had failed. 

In speaking of the waters of the Red Sweet and 
Sweet Springs, I wish to be understood as alluding 
to the baths, as well as to the internal use of 
the waters. In a large majority of cases, the bath 
is, doubtless, the most prominent agent in 
effecting a cure. Merely as a hath, there is 
probably little difference in the effects of the two 
springs. The temperature of the Ked Sweet is 
two or three degrees warmer than the Sweet. , 
This, in some cases, might be a difference of 
importance, and not to be overlooked by the physi- 
cian or the invalid. 

The effects experienced after coming out of 
these baths, provided the patient has not indulged 
himself in them too long, are as remarkable as 
they are agreeable. They differ widely from the 
effects of an ordinary cold bath. There is an 
elasticity and buoyancy of body and spirit that 
makes one feel like 'leaping walls or clearing 
ditches at a single bound. This cannot be from 
the absorption of any of the materials of the 



SWEET SPRINGS. 245 

water by fhe cutaneous vessels. The few minutes 
that we remain in the water, especially the very 
short time after the stricture of the skin from the 
first plunge has passed off, forbid such an idea. 
May it not be owing to a stimulant impression 
imparted by the carbonic acid gas to the nerves of 
the skin, and by sympathy extended rapidly over 
the whole body ? 



CHAPTER XIII. 

HOT SPRINGS. 



of the Waters Internally and Externally Used — Analysis — 
Diseases to wliich they are ai^'pUcable — Specidations on Thermali- 
zation, c&c, &c. 

The Hot Springs are situated in the County of 
Bath, thirty-five miles northeast from the White 
Sulphur, and twenty-one west from Millborough 
Depot. Comfortable bathing-house/ have been 
erected for the acconuaodation both of male and 
female patients. In each of these houses suitable 
arrangements are made for taking the sweat or 
plunge bath, as may be desired ; or for receiving 
the douche when it may be required. 

'^ Th-ere are six baths at this place,'' says Dr. 
21* 



246 MINERAL WATERS OF VIRGINIA. 

Goode, " eacli supplied with water from a separate 
spring ; they range in teriiperature from 100° to 
3 06° of heat. The effects of these waters in 
disease prove that they are highly medicated, 
though they are considered by many as simple hot 
water. They are known to contain sulphate and 
carbonate of lime, sulphate of soda and magnesia^ 
a minute portion of muriate of iron, carbonic acid 
gas, nitrogen gas, and a trace of sulphuretted 
hydrogen gas ; and, when used internally, some 
of the consequences are such as we might expect 
from our knowledge of their constituent parts. 

'' These waters, taken internally, are anti-acid, 
mildly aperient, and freely diuretic and diapho- 
retic. But, when used as a general bath, their 
effects are great, and excel all expectation. They 
equalize an unbalanced circulation, and thereby 
restore the different important parts of the system 
when torpid — that natural and peculiar sensibility, 
upon the existence of which their capacity to 
perform their several functions, and the beneficial 
action of all remedies, depend. They relax 
contracted tendons ; excite the action of absorbent 
vessels ; promote glandular secretion ; exert a 
marked and salutary influence over the biliary and 
urinary systems, and often relieve, in a short 
time, excruciating pain, caused by palpable and 
long-standing disease in some vital organ." 



HOT SPRINGS. 247 

These waters are suited only to clironic condi- 
tions of the system. Dr. James Johnson, of 
London, after enumerating the diseases in which 
Thermal Waters are inadmissible^ adds, *^ But 
there is a long catalogue of chronic disorders, to 
which tliermal medicinal ivaters, both internally 
and externally applied, prove extremely useful. 
Thermal waters act in three principal ways on the 
human machine : 1st, through the medium of 
sensation, on the nervous system ; 2d, through the 
agency of their temperature, on the vascular 
system ; and 3d, by means of their chemical 
contents, on the secretory and excretory organs. 
In most chronic complaints, and especially in 
rheumatism, gout, cutaneous defadations, neu- •^ 
ralgia, dyspepsia, glandular swellings, and 
visceral obstructiofis, there is pain, uneasiness or 
discomfort of some kind, which, indeed, consti- 
tutes the chief grievance of the individual. It is 
no unimportant matter to soothe those sufierings 
during the process employed for the cure. The 
warm bath effects this purpose in an eminent 
degree, through its agency on the sentient 
extremities of the nerves distributed over the 
surface of the body. There is an extensive chain 
of sympathies established between the skin and the 
internal viscei'a, and through the medium of this 
channel, agreeable sensations excited on the 
exterior, are very often communicated to the central 
organs and structures themselves. Even in this 



248 MINERAL WATERS OF VIRGINIA. 

way, torpid secretions are frequently roused into 
activity and improved in quality, while the 
secretory apparatus itself is relieved from a host 
of pdinful feelings. ' ' 

These waters have been analyzed by Professor 
William B. Kogers, formerly of the University of 
Virginia. The saline ingredients in one hundred 
cubic inches of water are — 

Carbonate of lime i 7-013 

Carbonate of magn.esia 1-334 

Sulphate of lime 1-303 

Sulphate of magnesia 1-530 

Sulphate of soda 1-363 

Chloride of sodium and magnesium, with a trace 

of chloride of calcium 0-105 

Proto-carbonate of iron 0-096 

Silica Jt 0045 

13-778 

The free gas consists of nitrogen^ oxygen, and 
carbonic acid gas. It also contains a mere trace 
of sulph. hydrogen. 

The heat of the human body, as ascertained by 
inserting the bulb of a thermometer under the 
tongue, is about 96° — sometimes as high as 98°; 
and these degrees seem to be the same, with little 
variation, in all parts of the world, neither affected, 
in the healthy body, by the heat of the torrid nor 
the cold of the frigid zones. But this, however, 
relates only to the internal temperature of the 



HOT SPRINGS. 249 

body ; the heat of the skin is very variable, and, 
generally, considerably below the degree of animal 
heat. This arises from the great cooling process 
of evaporation, constantly going on over the whole 
surface ; its sensibility to all external impres- 
sions, and its exposure to the atmosphere, which 
seldom rises so high as 98°, even in the highest 
heats of summer. 

From a view of these causes, we will easily be 
led to perceive why a bath heated to 98° gives a 
strong and decided sense of warmth to the skin ; 
and a sensation of slight warmth, ratlier than of 
chilliness, is felt, even several degress below this 
point. 

Whenever a bath is raised above the degree of 
animal heat, it then becomes a direct stimulus to 
the whole system, rapidly accelerates the j)ulse, 
increases the force of the circulation, renders the 
skin red and susceptible, and the vessels full and 
turgid. 

The temperature of the Hot Spring baths, 
ranging from 100° to 106°, must be decidedly 
stimulant, and the more or less so according to the 
particular bath employed. It is probably to their 
stimulant power that w^e are mainly indebted for 
their curative virtue. The soothing and tran- 
quilizing effects, which often follow their use, 
are the result of their sanative influence in bring- 
ing the organism into a normal condition. 

Hot baths are potent and positive agents. When 



250 MINERAL WATERS OF VIRGINIA. 

applied to the human body tliey are never negative 
in their influences^ but will do either much good 
or much harm, acccording to the judgment and 
skill with which they are employed. 

Their stimulant influences forbid their use in 
all acute diseases, and they are contra-indicated 
in such chronic cases as are attended with high 
vascular excitement, or exalted nervous suscepti- 
bility. There are, nevertheless, a large number 
of chronic diseases in which hot bathing constitutes- 
the most rational and the chief reliance of the 
invalid. But these potent agents should never be 
prescribed merely for the name of a disease, 
however carefully its nomenclature has been 
selected. The precise existing state of tlie system, 
whatever may be the pathology of the disease, 
ought always to be carefully looked to before a 
course of hot bathing is directed. 

These baths are found eminently useful in most 
cases of chronic rheumatism, and in the various 
forms of gont. In local paralysis, occasioned by 
the use of any of the mineral poisons, or in metas- 
tasis of gout, rheumatism, or other diseases, these 
baths may be iised with good effect. Chronic 
hronchitis, especially if connected with a gouty 
diathesis ; deafness, connected with defective or 
vitiated secretions of the membrane of the ear ; 
old sprains, or other painful injuries of the joints, 
are often much benefited by the use of the baths. 

Diseases of the Uterine System, such as amenor- 



HOT SPRINGS. 251 

rhoea, painful dysmenorrlioea, etc., are often 
greatly relieved here. 

In some of tlie more obstinate forms of hiliary 
derangements these baths are used with happy 
effects, particularly the hot doucJie, ^vhen applied 
over the region of the liver to relieve the torpor 
of that organ. 

There has already been so much written on the 
medical applicability of thermal ivaters, that I 
have not thought it necessary here to do more 
than to lay down a few general principles to guide 
the invalid in their use, and to allude to some 
particular diseases, for the cure of which the Hot 
Springs are known to be w^ell adapted. 

The cause of the high temperature of thermal 
springs has long been a matter of curious specula- 
tion. Some have attributed it to the agency of 
electricity ; but this must be regarded in the light 
of an ingenious speculation, rather than the result 
of observation and facts. It is very common now 
to regard the phenomena as the result of electrical 
influences, principally, perhaps, because we know 
the agent to be very potent and pervading, but 
partly because of our ignorance of the general 
laws by wdiich electricity is governed. But what- 
ever the facts may be, there seems to be no proof 
approximating to a reasonable probability, that 
electricity is in any way concerned in producing 
the high temperature of thermal w^aters. , 



252 MINERAL WATERS OP VIRGINIA. 

Another theory^ and one whicb. elicits tlie 
largest amount of credence, perhaps, from scientific 
men, alleges, that " the heat of thermal springs 
is owing to the central heat of the globe, and that 
it increases in proportion to the depth from which 
they proceed . ' ' The philospher Laplace embraced 
this theory, and it is I believe, held by most 
geologists. It is urged,* and, to some extent, is 
well maintained, that the ^^temperature of the 
earth increases, as we descend into it, about one 
degree for every hundred feet ; and if the increase 
continues in this proportion, we should arrive at 
boiling water at the depth of less than three 
miles.'' In proof of this fact, the regular increase 
of temperature, as workmen have decended into 
the earth in boring the artesian well at Paris, 
now eighteen hundred feet deep, and throwing 
out, by a subterranean power, an immense volume 
of warm water, might be cited. But what are we 
to do with the apparently refuting fact exhibited 
in the salts wells at Kanawha in our own State ? 
Several of these wells have been bored to the depth 
of sixteen or seventeen hundred feet, and, as we are 
informed, without any appreciable increase of 
temperature. 

Other theorists suppose that thermal springs 
owe their temperature to circumscribed volcanoes, 



* See Professor Daubeny's essay, in tlie Sixth Report of the 
British Association for the Aclyancement of Science. 



HOT SPRINGS. 253 

and that such springs are a sort of safety-valve to 
those subterraneous conflagrations. It is well 
known that an earthquake, or an eruption of a 
volcano, has often produced a change in the 
temperature of thermal springs that were even 
at some distance from the place where these 
phenomena occurred. 

There is still another theory, ^Hhat supposes 
that the heat of these springs is produced by cer- 
tain processes going on in the interior of the earth, 
and that these processes are attended with an 
absorption of oxygen and a consequent extrication 
of caloric." In the absence of any positive know- 
ledge on the subject, this theory would seem to be 
sustained by as much probability as any of the 
others that have been alluded to. But this is a 
subject that falls strictly within the province of 
geology ; and the zeal and success with w^hich 
that science is now being prosecuted, afford us 
reasonable grounds to look to its votaries for 
some elucidation of this curious topic. 



22 



254 MINERAL WATERS OE VIRGINIA. 



CHAPTER XIV. 

WARM SPRINGS. 

Analysis — Time and Manner of Using — Diseases for which 
Employed, &c., &c. 

The Warm Springs are situated in a narrow 
vale, at the western base of the Warm Spring 
Mountain, in the County of Bath, fifty miles west 
of Staunton, and five miles northeast from the Hot 
Springs. They are among the oldest of our 
watering places, having been resorted to on 
account of their medicinal virtues for more than 
eighty years. The property was patented by 
Governor Fauquier to the Lewis family, in 1760. 
For many years it was owned by the late Dr. 
John Brockenbrough, of Eichmond, who devised 
it to his two grand-daughters, also the grand- 
daughters of the distinguished Dr. Chapman, of 
Philadelphia. 

Several of our medicinal fountains claim to have 
been known and appreciated by the aborigines of 
the country. In reference to this particular one, 
there are many tales related by that venerable 
class, the oldest inhabitants, of the discovery" and 
use of its waters by the India^ns. 

It is a matter of sober history, that very soon 



WARM SPRINGS. 255 

after the discovery of the Warm Springs by civil- 
ized man, they became celebrated for their 
curative qualities, in various diseases, as well as 
for the mere luxury of bathing ; and that they 
were frequented, at much labor and fatigue, by 
great multitudes, before any other (save the Sweet 
Springs) of the valuable watering places in 
Virginia were known. 

The waters of the Warm Springs have been 
analyzed by two distinguished chemists, and with 
such discrepancy in results as to afford indubitable 
evidence that an analysis is not to be implicitly 
relied on in the administration of mineral waters. 

The following is the analysis made by Professor 
Wm. B. Eogers : — 

'^ The large bath is an octagon thirty-eight feet 
in diameter ; its area is 1163'77 feet. The ordi- 
nary depth beiug five feet, (it can be increased to 
six,) the cubic capacity is 5818'86 feet, or 
43,533*32 gallons ; notwithstanding the leahSj 
this quantity of water will flow into the reservoir 
in one hour. The average temperature of the 
bath is 98° Fah. The gas which rises in the bath 
consists of nitrogen, with minute quantities of 
sulphuretted hydrogen and carbonic acid. 

^' Besides this gas, each gallon of water contains 
4*5 cubic inches of gas, consisting of — 

Nitrogen 3-25 cubic inclies. 

Sulpliurettecl hydrogen 0-35 " 

Carbonic acicl 1*00 " 



256 MINERAL WATERS OF VIRGINIA. 

'^ The saline contents of one gallon of the water 
are as follows : — 

Muriate of lime 3-968 

Sulphate of magnesia, (Epsom salts,) 9-984 

Carbonate of lime= 4-288 

Sulphate of lime 5-466 

And a trace of soda 0-000 

23-706 

The following is the analysis of the Warm 
Spring Water by Mr. Hayes of Eoxbury, Massa- 
chusetts : * 

"^^ In physical characters, this water resembles 
ordinary chalybeate waters. Eecently drawn, it 
is clear, colorless, and in some degree sparkling, 
when agitated. Its taste is styptic or ferruginous, 
leaving the impression of a large amount of 
mineral matter being present. Agitated in the 
atmosphere, it becomes turbid, and deposits in 
filaments an ochry matter, consisting of oxide of 
iron and organic matter. 

'^ The dissolved gaseous matter is carbonic 
acid, with nitrogen ; no oxygen is present,. By 
heat it is rapidly changed, the deposit of ochry 
matter increasing in density, while gas is disen- 
gaged. 

'^ A standard gallon of this water, weighed at 
60° Fahrenheit, afforded the following proximate 
constituents : 

* Mineral Springs of Yirginia. 



WARM SPRINGS. 257 



1st bases: Sulphuric acid 9-443 gi 

Carbonic acid 9"210 

Silicic acid 0-990 

Organic acid 1-525 

2d bases: Potash 0-741 

Ammonia 0-110 

Lime 8-906 

Magnesia 0-444 

Protoxide of iron 0-973 

Aliunina 0-290 



82-632 grams. 

^^ The change produced in this water by exposure 
to the air, or bv heating itj indicates that the 
protoxide of iron exists in the water, united with 
organic acid. When silver salts are mixed with 
the freshly drawn water, the decomposition which 
follows is not attended by the coloration which 
humic and apocrenic acids produce. The deposi- 
tion, too, is largely mixed with oxide of iron. 
These, with other considerations, induce me to 
state that the protoxide of iron is united with 
crenic acid. In the further apportioning of the 
bases, by which we theoretically make up the salts 
supposed to exist formed in this water^ the mag- 
nesia and alumina are combined with hydrous 
silicic acid, to form a compound soluble in carbonic 
acid and water. The remaining bases, then, 
constitute salts, which, through the influence of 
chemical affinities, are — 



22* 



258 MINERAL WATERS OF VIRGINIA. 

Sulphate of potasli t'371 grains. 

Sulphate of ammonia 0"369 " 

Sulphate of lime 14-531 " 

Carbonate of lime 5-220 " 

Crenate of iron 2-498 " 

Silicate of magnesia and alumina 1-724 " 

Carbonic acid 6-919 " 

82-632 grains. 

^^In the preliminary examination of this water, 
it was deemed remarkable that so small a weight 
of iron salt should im'part so sensibly a chalybeate 
taste to so large a volume of water. Neither the 
carbonate nor sulphate of iron has this effect, and 
the only explanation is that alluded to above : the 
existence of a crenate dissolved in carbonic acid 
so as to form an acidulous water. This compound 
with the lime salts may be considered as the active 
medicinal parts of the water." 

The virtues of this water are probably owing to 
its temperature, rather than to any medicinal 
agents combined with it. The supply of water is 
very abundant — estimated at six thousand gallons 
a minute. For the gentlemen's bath, it is 
received into a room thirty-eight feet in diameter, 
and may be raised to the depth of six feet. After 
it has been used, the water is drawn off and the 
bath fills again in fifteen or twenty minutes. The 
ladies' bath is. comfortably furnished, and when 
required the water may be raised to the depth of 
five feet. Adjoining the gentlemen's bath, a room 



WARM SPRINGS. '259 

has been constructed for a cold plunge bath, whicli 
is plentifully supplied with common spring water, 
piped from the neigboring hills, of a temperature 
of from 60° to 65°. 

The common practice in the use of the Warm 
Spring bath is, to bathe twice a day, and remain 
in the Avater from twelve to twenty minutes each 
time. In some cases, especially when the bath is 
used for cutaneous diseases, the patient may 
profitably remain in for a much longer period, 
even from half an hour to one hour. As a general 
rule, and especially ' for delicate persons, active 
exercise should be avoided while in the bath, 
and always, on coming out, the bather should 
be well rubbed over the whole body with a coarse 
cloth. 

The best times for bathing are, in the morning 
before breakfast, and on an empty stomach an hour 
before dinner. Where perspiration is required, 
the bath should be taken in the evening, the 
patient retiring to bed immediately after. 

The diseases for which these baths have been 
profitably employed are numerous ; among them 
are atonic gout, chronic rheumatism, indolent 
swellings of the joints or lymphatic glands, 
paralysis, obstructions of the liver and spleen, old 
syphilitic and syphiloid diseases, chronic cuta- 
neous diseases, nephritic and calculous disorders, 
amenorrhoea and dysmenorrhoea. Occasionally, 
chronic diarrlioea is relieved. The same may be 



260 MINERAL WATERS OF VIRGINIA. 

said of neuralgia; but, most generallyj we find 
baths of somewhat lower temperature more 
beneficial in this disease. In connection with the 
internal use of the alum waters^ these baths will 
be found very serviceable in the various and 
distressing forms of scrofula. In painful affec- 
tions of the limbs, folIoAving a mercurial course, 
these baths are efficacious, and the more so if 
employed in connection with the internal use of 
the sulphur waters. 

Some precautions should be observed in entering 
upon the use of these baths, even by those to 
w^hose diseases they may be well adapted. The 
bowels should be open, or in a solvent condition ; 
the state of the tongue should indicate a good 
condition of the stomach ; the patient should be 
free from febrile excitement, and from the 
weariness and exhaustion generally the result of 
traveling in the public conveyances, in hot 
weather. Many commit a great error, and 
occasionally make themselves quite ill, by 
imprudently plunging into the bath immediately 
after arriving at the springs, and before they have 
in any degree become relieved from the fatigue 
and excitation of the travel necessary to reach 
them. From such an imprudent course, the 
bather has little rational grounds to hope for 
benefit, and is fortunate if he escape without 
injury. 



HEALINO SPRIXGS. 261 



CHAPTER XV. 

HEALING SPRINGS. 

History and Description — Therapeutic Action — Diseases for uMch 
it may he Prescribed^ etc., &c. 

This medicinal fountain is in Bath County, 
Virginia, and is one of tlie thermal springs that 
give name to that county, and for which the chain 
of valleys, that lie at the western hase of the 
Warm Spring Mountain, is so remarkahle. The 
most southern of the group is the ^'Falling Spring 
Valley," which embosoms the water und(^ notice.* 

Situated in the midst of a confined hut fruitful 
valley, and surrounded by wild and romantic 
scenery, the Healing Springs afford a sequestered 
retreat for the invalid, and a pleasing resort for 
those who seek respite from the cares of business, 
or desire the refreshing influences of mountain 
scenery and climate. 

This w^ater, and something of its curative powers, 
were known at an early day ; but owing to the 
want of means, and the existence of a bitter feud 
between, the parties to whom it belonged, no im- 

* "A Notice of the Healing Springs of Batli County, Yii-ginia, 
by William N. Patton, M. D." 



262 MINERAL V/ATERS OF VIRGINIA. 

provement whatever was made ; yet such has 
heen its reputatioiij that every year a greater or 
less number of visitors, composed chiefly of ex- 
treme cases that had failed to he relieved elsewhere, 
or were too ill or too poor to go abroad, have 
resorted to it. Of late years, since it has become 
more the practice, in obstinate and long-standing 
comi)laints, to seek relief by the use of mineral 
waters, this spring has been steadily advancing 
in reputation, and, without improvements or 
other advantages, has now forced itself into public 
notice, and created a demand for extensive ac- 
commodations. 

While a number of cases are reported to have 
been successfully submitted to the use of this 
water, no record of the character of such cases, 
nor history of their course and termination, has 
been made ; nor do we know of any attempt to 
define the character of the water, to determine its 
mode of action, nor to designate the diseases which 
it is known to control. 

To determine these points, a variety and number 
of facts have been gleaned from reliable sources, 
and furnished the data upon which the following 
conclusions are based. 

Enough is known of the medicinal effects of 
this water to enable us to enrol it upon the list of 
known curative means, and to welcome it to a 
place among the medicinal fountains, for which 
this region is already so distinguished. 



HEALING SPRINGS. 263 

The Healing Springs comprise three separate 
springs. Two of these are quite near each other, 
and the third at a distance of perhaps two hundred 
yards in the same ravine. These springs are 
beautifully bright and crystalline ; and the ever- 
bursting bubbles of gas, that escape with the 
water and float in myriads of vesicles upon its 
surface, impart to it a peculiar sparkling ap- 
pearance. 

The temperature of these springs is uniformly 
84° Fah., nor are they subject to any variation of 
quantity or quality. Singly, they afford a con- 
siderable volume of w^ater, and, together, w^ould 
form quite a bold fountain. Each, it is thought by 
some, possesses properties and virtues peculiar to 
itself, and hence they have received distinctive 
titles ; but, as the same sensible properties are 
common to them, perhaps no essential difference 
will be found in their qualities. The waters 
have not been analyzed. Lime and sandstone are 
the prevailing formations, and black slate, con- 
taining bisulphuret of iron, and other traces of 
minerals, are met with about the springs. From 
the superficial formations, however, it would 
hardly be legitimate to infer the character of this 
water, as it most probably has a very remote 
source, and derives chiefly its mineral elements 
from strata in the depths of the earth. The 
deposit along the stream is much more worthy of 
trust, and would seem to indicate the presence of 



264 MINERAL WATERS OE VIRGmiA. 

lime, alumina, iron, and other salts ; but in tlie 
absence of any analysis, we forbear to determine, 
with even an approximation to certainty, the 
chemical character of the water. A species of 
algce springs up luxuriantly in these waters. It is 
of a dark-green color, and exceedingly delicate 
and beautiful in structure. Its chemical nature 
has not been defined, though its therapeutical 
effects have been tested. Whether it acts by 
virtue of some inherent projoerty of its own, or in 
consequence of principles imbibed from the water, 
or simply upon the principle of a poultice, or by 
combining all these, we will not attempt to 
decide. Charged with saline and gaseous matter, 
the baths at these springs are exceedingly boioyant 
and grateful, and perhaps unsurpassed for the 
delightful and refreshing sensation they com- 
municate to the system. For drinking purposes, 
the water is too warm to be palatable at first, but 
its cordial effects upon the stomach soon make it 
an agreeable beverage. The water, when drunk, 
acts in three principal ways upon the system, to 
wit: upon the hidneySy the hoivels, and skin; and 
perhaps the relative affinity for each particular 
organ is correctly indicated by the order of their 
enumeration. The direction to either viscus, is 
influenced somewhat by the condition of the system 
and by the manner of using the water. While 
it is capable of being directed to either organ 
specifically, it may be so .employed as to exert a 



HEALING SPRINGS. 265 

quiet and less marked, but not less salutary, effect 
over the whole at once. Its simultaneous action 
upon three great emunctories of the body, with 
its capacity to be directed specifically to either, 
constitutes this water a safe and gentle, but at 
the 'same time a certain and efficient, depurating 
agent of the human body. 

Acting upon the whole of the external surface, 
with its countless pores and innumera^ble sebaceous 
glands — stimulating to new action the entire track 
of the alimentary canal, with its numerous and 
important organs — and urging the kidneys to 
throw off the multiform materials designed to be 
separated from the circulating fluids, and pro- 
ducing, when retained or imperfectly eliminated, 
such dangerous disturbance to the constitution — 
it is not wonderful that the water should exercise 
control over diseased action, and prove a remedy 
for a wide range of human maladies. 

The water is light, and does not oppress the 
stomach, however freely it is drunk. It is a ready 
promoter of digestion ; and it is a common remark 
of those under its use, that they can eat with 
impunity what would otherwise be intolerable. 

Bathing, both general and topical, is a valuable 
and important mode of employing the water, and 
should not be neglected when demanded by the 
circumstances of a given case. 

The water of the Healing Springs, so far as it 
is capable of classification, may be regarded, in 
23 



266 MINERAL WATERS OF VIRGINIA. 

its general action upon the system, as alterative 
and tonic, both directly and indirectly ; but inas- 
much as it is an agent sui generis in its character, 
we doubt the correctness of limiting its action by 
restrictive definitions. 

The first employment of these springs, and 
their earliest manifestation of curative powers was 
in ill-conditioned ulcers and intractable affections of 
the shin; and hence the significant name they bear. 
In these diseases, as classes, often as annoying 
and unsightly as they are painful and intractable, 
this agent enjoys a high popular reputation. 

In some cases of inveterate ulcers, the water 
promises, by a painless process, to achieve what 
the surgeon's knife had been powerless to effect, 
or the more dreaded cautery had failed to ac- 
complish. In cutaneous diseases, so frequently 
persisting for years, it is not less remarkable for 
its benign effects. In many of the graver forms 
of skin diseases, as well as in those of milder 
character, good results may be expected from its 
employment. 

It is worthy of remark, that the grave conse- 
quences that sometimes result from healing long- 
standing ulcers and diseases of the skin by the 
ordinary methods, are less to be apprehended in 
the cases of cure by this water. 

Scrofula is believed to be amenable to this agent. 
Kecently, several cures of this malady are reported 
to have occurred under its use. 



HEALIXG SPRINGS. 26*7 

In cJiTonic ojothalmic affections, whether dependent 
upon a scorbutic habit or other dyscrasy of the 
body, and in degenerate and morbid conditions of 
the eye, resulting from neglected or improper 
treatment, gratifying results may be anticipated 
from the judicious use of these springs. 

Here, as in all the varieties of ulcers and local 
inflammations treated by this water, a new agent 
may be employed ; it is the topical application of 
the moss that grows luxuriantly in the baths and 
streams that flow from them. This has a peculiar 
effect. When applied to a diseased surface it 
becomes painful, sometimes exceedingly so, and 
yet, upon inspection of the part, its redness has 
been dispelled, and a new and more healthy action 
established. When the application has been long 
continued, the surface becomes blanched and 
corrugated. 

In subacute rlieumatism these waters have ac- 
quired considerable reputation. For the relief of 
the suffering, and to correct the morbid condition 
upon which it de23ends, they may often be em- 
ployed, both externally and internally, with much 
benefit. 

The temperature of the water is not so high as 
to stimulate this form into the acute, nor so low 
as to endanger the patient by suckien metastasis, 
while both effects are guarded against by its 
diuretic action, and its tendency to the bowels and 
skin. In the present instance, as in other cases. 



268 MINERAL WATERS OF VIRGINIA. 

where it is desirable to give tlie water a decided 
direction to tlie "bowels or skin, appropriate 
adjuvants should be employed. 

In Neuralgia, a congener of the disease just con- 
sidered, the water is frequently found to be reme- 
dial, and, from its alleviation of the thrilling, 
piercing pain attendant upon this affection, one of 
the springs received long since the homely but 
expressive title of ^^ Toothache Spring." It is to 
those cases, dependent upon general derangement of 
the system, resulting from a residence in unhealthy 
districts of country, or those that have their origin 
in nervous irritability, or spring from a gouty or 
rheumatic diathesis — that the water is adapted. 

Dyspepsia, that inveterate scourge of the seden- 
tary and thoughtful, which so often mocks all 
rational as well as foolish means that are invoked 
for its relief, not unfrequently finds an ^.ntidote 
in these waters. 

For chronic thrush or apthoe, the Healing Springs 
have been employed with success, after a fruitless 
but persevering use of other means. 

I have occasionally sent patients, suffering under 
chronic affections of the lining coat of the bowels, 
to this water, with good effect. 

Leucorrhoea, and other kindred disorders of the 
female, when mdependent of malignant action, or 
actual displacement of organs, will often yield to 
the free internal and external use of the waters. 



ROCKBRIDGE ALUM SPRINGS, . 269 

Some of the diseases of the urinary organs are 
favorably controlled by these waters ; among 
which may be enumerated chronic irritation, with 
mucous discharges from the bladder. I have 
had occasion to be pleased with their effects in 
several such cases. 



CHAPTEK XVI. 
KOCKBRIDGE ALIBI SPRINGS. 

Early Jiisiory and descripiion — Analysis — Remarks on Analysis — 
The name Alum a misnomer^ &c. — Therapeutic effects of the 
icaters — Diseases in tcliich they are employed — Their excellent 
• effects in Scrofula^ &c. 

These springs are situated in the northern part 
of the County of Kockbridge, on the main turn- 
pike road leading from the town of Lexington to 
the Warm Springs, seventeen miles from the 
former and about twenty-one from the latter. 
They were originally the property of the Campbell 
family, by whom the land on which they are 
situated was located about sixty years ago. 



23* 



270 MINERAL WATERS OF VIRaiNIA. 

The existence of an alum spring at this place 
was known at the time of the entry of the land, 
and its peculiarities soon led the people of the 
neighborhood to test its virtues, first as an external 
and then as an internal remedy, especially for 
diseases of the skin. The success of these experi- 
ments established a local reputation for the water 
to such an extent, that the proprietor of the 
springs found it to his interest to open a house of 
entertainment for the accommodation of those who 
might desire to use them. 

But the isolated character of the place, the 
limited accommodations, and especially the fact 
that it was then out of the great ^^ Spring circle,'' 
and withal inconvenient to apj)roach, prevented for 
several years any large visitation to the place. 
But the reputation of the water, resulting from 
actual experience in its use, continued to increase 
and extend, until the public demand for accommo- 
dation forced an enterprise into the economy of 
the establishment that has resulted in the erection 
of appropriate buildings, sufficient for the ac- 
commodation of six or eight hundred visitors, and 
in greatly improving and beautifying the grounds 
adjacent to the springs. Still the increasing 
reputation of the waters, and a consequent in- 
creasing patronage, so urgently demand further 
accommodations, that the proprietors are now 
actively engaged in the erection of new buildings 
to be finished by the next season, and which will 



ROCKBRIDGE ALUM SPRINGS. 271 

still further increase their capacity to accom- 
modate. 

The property is now owned by Messrs. Frazier 
& Kandolph, whose industry and enterprise give 
ample guarantee that the extent of their accom- 
modations will hereafter he commensurate with 
the public demands. 

Small reservoirs cut in the rock receive the 
alum water as it percolates through a heavy cliff 
of slate-stone. There are five of these reservoirs 
or springs, all differing slightly from each other, 
and also differing from themselves at different 
times, being stronger, and the water also more 
abundant, in rainy weather. 

At the base of the same hill from which the 

alum water issues, and a few hundred yards above, 

is a good CJicdyheate Sprnng, which in many cases 

'may be used either alone or in connection with the 

alum water to great advantage. 

These waters were analyzed by Professor Aug. 
A. Hayes, of Boston, in 1852, with the following 
results : — • 

Description and Analysis of three Samples of Rock- 
hridge Alum Water from Virginia. 
''The samples presented perfectly clear, color- 
less, and odorless water ; the taste was very 
stringent, with the more lasting impression 
produced by iron salts. In closed vessels the 
water may be heated without becoming turbid, 
but boiling causes ochry matter to fall. In the 



272 MINERAL WATERS OF VIRGINIA. 

composition of Eockbridge waters mucli more of 
the salts of alumina is found than in the Bath 
Alum water . 

Rockhridge^ No. 1. 

A standard gallon at 60° F. contains — 

Of bases: Sodium and soda 0-250 

Potash traces. 

Ammonia 0-471 

Lime 0-594 

Magnesia 0-368 

Alumina 4-420 

Protoxide of iron 1-748 

Of acids : Sulphuric acid , 32-026 

Carbonic " : 2-623 

Organic " 0-930 

Silicic " 2-460 

Chlorine " 0-257 

The changes which take place in these waters by 
boiling, the action of sulphydric acid and salts of 
silver, indicate that these proximate constituents 
are combined to form the following salts : — 

Sulphate of lime 1-439 

Sulphate of magnesia..... 1-081 

Protoxide of iron 3-083 

Alumina 14-764 

Chloride of sodium 0-423 

Silicate of soda 2-544 

Crenate of ammonia , 1-401 

Free sulphuric acid 18-789 

" carbonic acid 2-623 

46-747 
Pure water , 58325253 

58372-000 



ROCKBRIDGE ALUM SPRINGS. 273 



Sample of Bockhridge Alum, ]N"o. 2. 

One gallon of this sample measured at 60° F. 
contains the following substances: — 

As bases: Potasli 0-954 

Sodium 0-401 

Ammonia 0-300 

Lime 1-346 

Magnesia 0-600 

Protoxide of iron 2-304 

Alumina 5-360 

As acids: Sulphuric acid 34-219 

Carbonic " 7-356 

Crenic " 0-400 

Silicic " 2-840 

Clilorine " 0-607 



The acids unite to the bases, forming salts of 
the following weights :— 

Sulphate of potash 1-765 

lime 8-263 

" magnesia 1-763 

Protoxide of iron 4-863 

Alumina - 17905 

Crenate of ammonia 0-700 

Chloride of sodium I'OOB 

Silicic acid 2-840 

Free sulphuric acid 15-224 

Carbonic acid 7*356 

56-687 
Pure water... 58315-313 

58372-000 



274 MINERAL WATERS OF VIRGINIA. 

Sample of BocJcbridge Alum, I^o. 4. 
One gallon of this sam]Dle afforded — 

As bases: Potash traces. 

Sodium 0173 

Ammonia 0-360 

Lime 1.346 

Magnesia 1-503 

Protoxide of iron... .r- 2-223 

Alumina 7-210 

Organic matter 1-020 

Of acids: Sulphuric acid , .....29-686 

Carbonic " 4-203 

Chlorine " 0-266 

Silicic " ...., ....1-710 

Crenic " 860 



Those substances comhined as salts give the 
following constituents : — • 

Chloride of sodium 0-439 

Sulphate of lime 3-261 

Sulphate of magnesia 4-418 

Protoxide of iron 4*693 

Alumina 24-085 

Crenate of ammonia 1-220 

Free sulphuric acid 5-511 

" carbonic " 4-203 

" silicic " 1-710 

Organic matter 1*020 

50-560 
58321-440 

58372-000 



ROCKBRIDGE ALUM SPRINGS. 2^5 

In comparing these samples with those of the 
Bath Alum Springs ; it will he seen that they are 
more highly acid in composition, and contain 
hesides more of the tri-sulphate of alumina in a 
given volume. This salt gives character and 
activity to these waters, and renders them 
suhjects of great interest when used as remedial 
agents. 

Of the waters hitherto descrihed, those from 
the Oak Orchard Acid Mineral Springs of 
Alabama, Genesee County, New York, approach 
most nearly to this composition. 

The results of an analysis by Dr. James E. 
Chilton^ of Spring No. 1, are given for com- 
parison : — 

SiJring No. 1. 
One gallon contains of — 

Free sulphiiric acid 82-96 

Sulphate of lime 39-60 

Protoxide of iron 14-33 

Alumina 9-68 

Magnesia 8-28 

Silica 1-04 

Organic matter 3-28 

159-16 

Containing nearly three times the weight of 
solid matter in the gallon, this water does not 
afford more than half the amount of tri-sulphate 



276 MINERAL WATERS OF VIRGINIA. 

of alumina wliich. is found in the average of tlie 
Eockbridge Alum Springs. 

The supposed presence of arsenious acid^ and the 
expectation that more active bodies than those 
named would be found, led to a careful examina- 
tion of the black, decomposed shale from which 
the Bath Alum water takes its rise. The shale 
gave sulphates of iron, lime^ and alumina to pure 
water, and contained an abundance of iron 
pyrites. When two pounds of the clay were 
decomposed, the resulting fluid contained no 
arsenious acid or copper. The earthy part 
aJfforded a trace merely of the phosphate of lime. 
The same negative results followed an analysis of 
the dry mass from four gallons of the mixed 
waters. 

The general conclusions following from the 
results of these analyses are, that the Bath Alum 
Springs, containing more ferruginous salts, and 
having the sulphuric acid more equally neutral- 
ized, approach more nearly in composition to 
chalybeate waters. While the proportions of the 
salts to the pure water may vary, the relation in 
hind will bo preserved. 

The Eockbridge Alum waters, on the other 
hand, have their iron salts almost masked in 
their action by the predominance of free sulphuric 
acid and tri-sulphate of alumina. In these, too, 
we may expect the same general relation of hind 
to prevail, although more or less of the salts is 



EOCKBRIDGE ALUM SPRINGS. 2'7'7 

present in the water. Both contain a portion of 
iron oxide, united to organic compounds, which, 
indejoendentlj of the other salts and acids, would 
constitute them chalyheate waters. In their 
origin they are quite pure surface waters, Avhich, 
percolating through strata undergoing decompo- 
sition, take from them their soluhle mineral and 
organic matters. 

Such is the analysis of this interesting mineral 
water, by the same distinguished chemist that 
analyzed the waters of the Bath Alum Springs. 

The analyses of these two waters, so essentially 
resembling each other, are laid before the public 
in this volume, and by comparing them, an op- 
portunity is afforded the medical man of hypo- 
thetically determining the character of each, and 
to see at one view in what they agree, and in 
what they differ from each other ; and hence, so 
far as analysis can settle the question, to deter- 
mine their relative powers and medicinal applica- 
bility. Candor will have to admit, however, that 
it is not analysis alone, nor principally, that can 
satisfactorily determine the therapeutical char- 
acter or medicinal adaptations of mineral waters. 

Dr. Huntt, in his pamphlet on the Red Sul- 
phur, in alluding to Professor Rogers' analysis of 
that spring, observes that ^^it certainly does not 
satisfactorily account for the wonderful effects of 
the water." The same remark may be made in 
24 



278 MINERAL WATERS OF VIRGINIA. 

reference to tlie analysis of all our mineral waters, 
in connection with the well known and peculiar 
operations of those waters , with the exception, 
perhaps, of the simple chalyheates ; and this, it 
is fair to presume, will continue to he true of any 
analysis that can he made in the present state of 
chemical science. It is well known to every one 
at all acquainted with chemical science, that 
compounds of a very dissimilar character are pro- 
duced hy the comhination of the same elements in 
different proportions, producing suhstances, in 
some instances, of far greater activity than any 
of the articles of which they are composed. There 
is, perhaps, no hetter illustration of this than that 
offered hy the union of oxygen and 7iitrogen, pro- 
ducing, when comhined in one j^roportion, afmos- 
pJieric air, nitrous oxide in another, and nitric 
acid in a third. ISTor are we sure that the chemist 
is ahle to detect all the ingredients which mineral 
waters contain. The very tests which reveal some 
of them to us may have the power of destroying 
others, and these^ too, may he those in which the 
medicinal properties reside. The remedial prop- 
erties, then, of mineral waters cannot he determined 
loitli any certainty hy analysis, however nicely con- 
ducted, hut must he ascertained by experience. 
One dozen well ^' ivatched" cases, under the use 
of a mineral water, will do more to determine 
the medical powers and applicability of such 
water than any analysis that can be made hy the 
ablest chemist. 



ROCKBRIDaB ALUM SPEINGS. 279 

An analysis of a mineral Avater satisfies curiosity 
as to the materials the water is supposed to con- 
tain, while it enables the medical man to form 
some general conclusions as to the most prominent 
characteristics of the water as a remedial agent. 
Thus far, they are valuable, but singly and alone, 
without the aid of observation and experience, 
they never can be safely relied upon to guide in 
the administration of a remedial water in indi- 
vidual cases. 

This position finds a pertinent illustration in 
the Kockbridge Alum water. Who would not 
say, looking at the analysis of this water alone, 
that its operation would be that of an astringent 
upon the system ? while the fact is, that it purges 
seven out of ten tliat use it. Again, who would 
have judged, from a mere analysis of the water, 
that it was calculated to remove a great reproach 
from the healing art, by constituting a reliable 
remedy for scrofula, a disease hitherto so entirely 
unmanageable ? Yet, experience has established 
this fact beyond controversy. 

Alum waters are of very recent introduction as 
remedial agents, and close practical observation is 
yet a desideratum as to their peculiar therapeu- 
tical agency and most appropriate medicinal 
applicability. These waters certainly possess 
unequivocal curative powers, and although their 
reputation is now high, they are destined to ad- 
vance still further in public confidence. Experi- 



280 MINERAL WATERS OF VIRGINIA. 

ence has fully shown that they are very effica- 
ciously used in many diseases of the skin and 
glandular system ; and that in scrofulous affections 
they offer new hopes to the afflicted. 

But the name Alum, applied to this spring, 
while it is intended to conform to the general 
spring nomenclature of calling springs after some 
one of their leading ingredients, is, medically 
considered^ a misnomer, and conveys the erro- 
neous idea that its virtues are owing to the alum 
it holds in solution. 

Chemically considered, it is an aluminous sul- 
pliated clialyheatey containing, as will he seen from 
its analysis, many of the hest materials that are 
found in the most valued mineral waters in 
Europe, or this country. The protoxide of iron, 
sodium, potash, lime, magnesia, and ammonia, 
together with sulphuric, carhonic, crenic, chloric 
and silicic acids, exist in the waiter in common 
with alum. Some of these ingredients are found 
in the most distinguished of the English and 
Grerman waters, particularly in those of Tun- 
bridge, Harrogate, Leamington, and Aix-la- 
Chapelle ; as well as in the waters of the famous 
Spa, in Oarthe ; in those of Passy, and in the 
celebrated springs of Bagneres, in Garonne, all 
of which have acquired a world-wide celebrity, 
for the cure of many diseases for which the Kock- 
bridge Alum has been successfully prescribed. 

The fact should always be borne in mind, by 



ROCKBRIDGE ALUM SPRINGS. . 281 

those who are investigating mineral waters, that 
it is rather to the compound, than to any single 
ingredient of a mineral water, that we are to 
look for its medicinal efificiencv, and the scope of 
its applicability. That alum is an important 
ingredient in the compound of this water, I do not 
mean to question, hut that it is so transcendently 
important as to give name to the spring, is very 
questionable. It is said that a rose by any other 
name will smell as sweet, and so wdll this alumin- 
ous sulpliated clialyheate be just as efficacious under 
the appellation of Alum. But the real objection 
to the misnomer lies behind this, and exists in 
the fact, that it is calculated to mislead the 
uninitiated, in the absence of analysis, or careful 
inquiry. Indeed, I have reason to know that 
persons have not unfrequently been disinclined to 
visit the Alum, influenced by the name alone, and 
under the impression that the water, as its name 
imports, would act as an astringent, and therefore 
be hurtful to them. How great is the error of such 
an opinion, every one who has been much at the 
springs is aware ; for, so far from being astringent, 
the Rockbridge Alum will gently purge two-thirds 
of the cases submitted to its use. 

But whether the name be, or be not, the best 
that could have been adopted, it is now a fixture, 
established by many years usage^ and is not likely 
to be changed ; and my only object in calling 
attention to the subject is to enter a caution against 
34* 



282 MINEKAL WATERS OF VIRGINIA. 

persons being misled as to the character of the water 
from the mere name of the spring. 

These waters have been rapidly increasing in 
the public favor and confidence since thej first 
became a resort for valetudinarians. They possess 
rare, but well-established medicinal virtues, and 
as their therapeutical applicability shall be more 
closely and distinctly defined, they must still 
further advance in popular and professional con- 
fidence. 

The immediate effects of these waters, under 
their full and kindly influences upon the system, 
are those of a "febrifuge tonic ; resembling the 
action of some of our best vegetable medicines of 
that class ; but superior to them, from their specific 
tendency to the bowels and kidneys. 

By their diffusible astringent and tonic powers, 
they resolve the congestions of engorged viscera, 
and remove subacute inflammations ; thus releas- 
ing and giving activity to the fluids, they fill up 
the superficial capillaries and veins, and give a 
full, slow pulse, with a warm surface, and soft 
skin. 

They purge mildly, perhaps, two-thirds of the 
persons that use them freely. Their action upon the 
kidneys is generally prompt, sure, and sometimes 
active. Their action upon the skin is secondary, 
and is the result of their sanative action upon the 
blood-vessels and internal organs, by resolving 
inflammation and congestions, — and hence,- is 



ROCKBRIDGE ALUM SPRINGS. . 283 

always, to be regarded as a favorable indication in 
the case. 

Experience has fully shown that these waters 
are very efficaciously prescribed in marny diseases 
of the shin and glandular system ; lupus and other 
malignant ulcerations of the mouth and throat, 
have been cured by them. 

In various chronic affections of the digestive 
organs, either simple, or implicating the liver, 
they are advantageously used. 

They are very valuable in mesenteric affections, 
particularly in persons, old or young, of scorbutic 
tendencies. 

In chronic diarrhoea, they display speedy and 
happy effects. 

Being prompt and active as a diuretic, when 
judiciously used, they are found very beneficial in 
chronic irritations, and dehility of the kidney, blad- 
der, and urethra. 

To several of the affections commonly known as 
female diseases, they are very happily adapted. 
In leucorrhoea, as would readily be inferred from 
their composition, they are an admirable remedy ; 
often curing that disease, although it has been a 
complaint of long standing. In menorrhagia, 
unattended with plethora of the blood-vessels, 
and with the system in a condition to bear 
tonics, they may be prescribed with great confi- 
dence. In amenorrhoea and dysmenorrhoea, where 
a phlogosed state of the system does not contra- 



284 MINERAL WATERS OF VIRGINIA. 

indicate tlie use of mineral tonics, tliey may be 
used to eminent advantage. In the chlorotic 
condition of the female system generally, and 
especially wjien the tendency is great to paucity 
or poverty of hlood, the waters will be used to 
much advantage. 

In ancemic conditions generally, and in cases of 
debility and loss of tone in the nervous system, 
they may be administered with much confidence. 

Broncliitis , when in connection with a strumous 
diathesis, may be treated by these waters to great 
advantage ; in such cases, it will be found to be 
one of our best remedies. 

In Gastralgia, or nervous dyspepsia, they often 
act most kindly and effectively, by changing the 
action of the mucous membrane, and relieving it 
of its subacute irritation. 

They actively promote the appetite, and in- 
vigorate the digestive powers. 

But it is especially in Scrofula, that these waters 
have won their highest honors and established a 
reputation, not only among the best mineral 
waters of this country, but of the world. Their 
happy combination of tonic, alterative, diuretic 
and aperient qualities, render them an efficient 
remedy in many of the ills of humanity ; but 
especially in the various forms of strumous disease, 
and even their worst forms, they merit confidence 
and deserve praise. In this formidable class of 
affections, whether exhibiting itself in the 



ROCKBRIDGE ALUM SPRINGS. 285 

hardened and enlarge'd glands, and in ulcerations 
in children — in oplitlialmio inflammations ; in 
mesenteric indurations, or in its more intense and 
pervading development of adult life, they have 
been extensively used, and generally with great 
"benefit to the sufferers. 

Scrofula, or Kings Evil, has heretofore, to a 
large extent, stood as a reproach to the healing 
art ; for although occasional remedies have claimed 
reputation for its cure, and often not without solid 
merit, it may well he doubted whether any has 
yet come into popular use, that is more generally 
successful than the Kockbridge Alum waters, 
when properly administered. This opinion of 
their high merit in such cases, is not the result 
of slight observations, or of their fortunate effects 
in one or two remarkable cases ; on the contrary, it 
is the result of the knowledge of their employment 
for many years, in cases of various degrees of 
intensity, and in patients of dissimilar ages and 
constitutions. The suffering of thousands, in 
whom the germ of scrofula is implanted, (or who 
are laboring under its developed evils^ and who 
are not likely, as I believe, to obtain a more 
efficient remedy than is afforded by these waters,) 
will be esteemed a sufficient justification for the 
earnestness with which I indicate my confidence 
of their use in such cases. But let me not be 
misunderstood as intending to convey the impres- 
sion that they will cure every case of this disease,^ 



286 MINERAL WATEES OF VIRGINIA. 

whatever may "be its seat, character, or combina- 
tion ; both my judgment and experience fall short 
of this conclusion ; but they both concur in 
regarding the remedy as among the best, if not 
the very bestj now known for scrofula, and 
one that is calculated to brighten the hopes of 
'those who may be the subjects of this formidable 
malady. 

The Eockbridge Alum, as therapeutic water, is 
not a negative agent ; its effects upon the system 
are positive, direct, and palpable. It is, in a high 
sense of the term, a medicinal water, capable, 
when properly directed and applied, of doing 
great good in a wide circle of cases, or when 
injudiciously used, of disappointing hopes, and 
producing injury. It does not belong to that 
anomalous class of agents of which it is often said 
^^they will do no harm if they do no good." 
Such being the potent character of these waters, 
the importance that cases, which are to be 
submitted to their use, should be carefully 
discriminated, and that the water should be 
employed under the direction of judgment and 
experience, must be apparent to all. It is a 
fortunate circumstance for the invalid public, as 
well as [for the solid reputation of the springs, 
that several medical gentlemen of intelligence 
and acquirements, are in the habit of making their 
residence there during the watering seasons, 
whose experience has made them familiar with 



ROCKBRIDaE ALUM SPEIXGS. 28*7 

the powers and applicabilities of tlie water, and 
wlio are therefore qualified to direct the invalid in 
its proper use. 

The bathing establishment ?iii\\\^^\?^CQ, completed 
within the last year, succes'sfully supplies a want 
that visitors had previously experienced. Xot 
only the ordinary hot, cold and shower baths are 
supplied, but also the Eussian vapor hath, a style 
of bath heretofore but little known to the masses 
of our people. This steam bath, which, is simply 
the vapor of pure mountain water, is, as adminis- 
tered here, one of the greatest luxuries of bathing. 
Simply as a means of thoroughly clea.nsing the shin, 
and so of invigorating the whole system and 
equalizing the circulation, it is, perhaps, 
unexcelled e'^^en by the famous Turkish bath as 
administered at Constantinople. When the public 
become more familiar with the use of the simple 
steam bath, and the popular idea of its hazard 
gives way to the results of actual experience, it 
must become a favorite not only as a luxury, but 
also as a hygienic agent. 

The Alum water has become an extensive 
article of commerce, and is largely transported 
from the springs, both in wood and glass, to be 
used by persons at a distance, and is believed to 
contain all, or most, of its curative powers, after 
being thus transported. 

The residuary salts of the water obtained by 
evaporation, are also a subject of transportation, 



288 MINERAL WATERS OF VIRGINIA. 

and are frequently used in substitution, where the 
water cannot be procured. A piece of this 
residuum, or masSj of the size of a common pea, 
dissolved in a half-pint of common water, will 
make it of about the s'trength of the water at the 
spring. This mass, administered in the dose of 
from three to four grains, in aromatic syrup of 
rhubarb, and repeated thrice daily, has proved a 
valuable remedy in obstinate bowel complaints of 
children, produced from teething, when unat- 
tended with fever. In adult practice, it is 
sometimes beneficially used in the dose of from 
five to fifteen grains, to strengthen and promote 
digestion. 

The proprietors of this watering jjlace bave 
adopted the plan of keeping open their establish- 
ment for the use of invalids, during the spring smd 
fall months, as well as during the summer. 

This is an excellent arrangement, inasmuch as 
it affords to invalids the opportunity of using the 
waters fresh at the spring, unannoyed by the 
summer crowd. The strength of the water, and 
its medicinal action upon the system, will be 
found to be essentially the same during the spring, 
summer, and fall. 



290 MNERAL WATERS OF VIRGINIA. 

whose family still own a large interest in the 
property. 

The improvements here are extensive, substan- 
tial, and convenient, affording comfortable and 
elegant accommodations for a large company. 

The Alum waters issue from a slatestone cliff of 
tAvelve or fifteen feet high, and are received into 
small reservoirs, that have been excavated near 
each other in the rock. These different springs, 
or reservoirs, differ essentially from each other. 
One of them is a very strong chalybeate, with but 
little alum ; another is a milder chalybeate, with 
more alumina ; while the others are alum of 
different degrees of strength, but all containing 
an appreciable quantity of iron. 

Prof. Hayes, of Boston, the same gentleman to 
whom we are indebted for the analysis of several 
of our mineral springs, has analyzed the waters 
of the Bath Alum, and renders the following 
results from his chemical investigations. 

^^A standard gallon (58*372 grs.) was the 
measure of each water used in the determination 
of the quantities of the substances found. The 
experiments necessary for ascertaining the 
presence or absence of other substances than 
those named, were made on much larger 
quantities, so as to render the chemical history 
more exact. 

^'The first sample, Bath Alum No. 1,* at the 

* Referring to the lowest spring. 



BATH ALUM SPRINGS. '291 

temperature of 60° F. one standard g^<^xion of this 
water contains : — 

Of bases : Soda 0-720 

Potash traces. 

Ammonia 0'830 

Lime loTO 

Magnesia 0-960 

Protoxide of iron 6-876 

Alumina 3-080 

Of acids: Sulphuric acid 24-750 

Carbonic " 4-140 

Silicic " 1-390 

Organic " 1-020 

Chlorine " 0-107 

''When their proximate constituents are 
arranged, so as to represent, as nearly as it is 
possible, the compounds which experiments prove 
to exist in the water, the composition of the whole 
may be expressed as — 

Pure water 58326-557 

Free sulph. acid 5-806 

Carbonic acid 4-140 

Sulphate of lime 3-805 

Sulphate of magnesia 2-821 

Protoxide iron 14-516 

Alumina 10-288 

Chloride of sodium 0-176 

Silicate of soda 2-024 

Crenate of ammonia... 1-850 

Oxygen added to sodium 017 

45-443 



292 MINERAL WATERS OF VIRaiNIA. 

Safnple No. 2, Bath Alum No. 3. 
^^In one gallon 'of this sample there were 
contained — ■ 

As bases: Potash 0.140 

Soda 0-350 

Ammonia 0462 

Magnesia 0486 

Lime 1-049 

Protoxide of iron 10-314 

Alumina 3*680 

As acids: Sulphuric acid 30-359 

Carbonic " 3-846 

Organic " 1-310 

Silicic " 2-800 

Chlorine " trace. 

^^ These substances united in the form of salts 
as existing in the water, give the matter foreign 
to pure water. 

^^The composition of the gallon in grains is— 



Pure water 58317-206 

Free sulphuric acid,..-. 7-878 

Carbonic acid.. 3-846 

Sulphate of potash 258 

Magnesia 1-282 

Lime 2539 

Protoxide of iron..... 21-776 

Alumina 12-293 

Crenate of ammonia 1-776 

Silicate of soda 3-150 

54-798 
Pure water 58317-202 

58372-000 



BATH ALUM SPEINGS. 293 

*^ This sample differs from the first in acting 
much more strongly on the organs of taste, and 
the quantity of free sulphuric acid is larger than 
in that water* Both these waters are highly acid 
in their action, although the acid is united to 
bases, which in part neutralize its power. When 
by boiling a deposit takes place, if the heat is 
continued, the deposited matter re-dissolves as the 
water evaporates. 

^^When much reduced in volume by evapo- 
ration, the excess of acid chars the organic acid 
present, and alters the composition of the salts. 

^^In. considering the composition of these 
waters, the protoxide of iron is assumed to be 
united to the sulphuric acid. The change pro- 
duced by heating is referred to the action of the 
crenate of ammonia, and is the same as ordinarily 
where crenates, free from apocrenates, are 
naturally contained in a water. When mixed 
with the soluble salts of silver and exposed to 
light, the gray color is entirely distinct from that 
produced by either apocrenates, humates or any 
decomposing matter. When the metallic silver 
and oxide of iron, resulting from the first action, 
are removed, the mixture by evaporation continues 
to afford brilliant scales of metallic silver, until 
reduced to a small volume. 

^^The gaseous matter in these waters is a 
mixture of carbonic acid, nitrogen, and a small 
proportion of oxygen, and the measure is about 
25* 



294 MINERAL WATERS OF VIRGINIA. 

one volume of the mixed gases to forty volumes 
of the water. The carbonic acid is given by 
weighty so that a uniform expression of acid 
relation is adopted, and no misconception can 
arise, if the reader bears in mind the fact, that 
carbonic acid has more than twice the acid or 
neutralizing power possessed by the strongest 
fluid sulphuric acid." 

Dr. Strother, an intelligent physician, who long 
resided in the neighborhood, thought very favor- 
ably of them in scrofulous, eruptive and dyspeptic 
affections. He also bears testimony to their good 
effects in old hepatic de7^angements, chronic diarrhoea, 
chronic thrush, nervous debility, and in various 
uterine diseases, especially in the worst forms of 
monorrhagia, and in Jiuor albus, both uterine and 
vaginal. 

In chlorotic females, and in a broken-down con- 
dition of the nervous system, often in males the 
result of youthful improprieties, as well as when 
the system is ancemic, but free from obstinate 
visceral obstructions, this water promises to be 
very beneficial. 

Its high chalybeate and aluminous impregnation 
manifests decided tonic and astringent powers, 
and indicates its adaptation to a number of diseases, 
such as haemorrhages of the passive character, the 
profluvia, obstinate cutaneous and ulcerative 
diseases, and anaemic conditions of the system 
generally, that are unattended with visceral 
obstructions. 



ROCKBRIDGE BATHS. 295 



CHAPTER XYIII. 

Rockbridge Baths — Daggar's Springs — Cold SidpJiur Springs—- 
Stribling Springs. 

ROCKBRIDGE BATHS. 

This new Virginia Sjja is situated in the County 
of Rockbridge, on the stage road from Lexington 
to the Goshen Bej^ot, on the Central Railroad, and 
about equi-distant from the two places. 

The waters of these baths are impregnated with 
iron, and abounds richly in carbonic acid gas. 
There are here two bold springs, furnishing suffi- 
cient water for two bathing establishments. The 
property is owned by a company of gentlemen 
residing in Rockbridge, who, in the course of the 
last few years, have erected handsome and con- ■ 
venient improvements, capable of accommodating 
from 15U to 200 visitors. 

As a tonic bath, adapted to nervous diseases, 
general debility^ and to that comprehensive class 
of cases found to be so essentially benefited by 
tonic bathing — and especially after the use of 
alterative mineral waters — these baths will be 
found highly efficacious, and are destined to be a 
favorite resort to a large class of invalids. 



296 MINERAL WATERS OF VIRGINIA. 

They are conveniently readied, either from 
Lexington or Goshen Depot; by stages running 
over well-graded roads. 

DAGGAK'S SPEINGS. 

Daggar's Spring is in the extreme northwestern 
portion of Botetourt County, thirty miles east of 
the great Alleghany chain of mountains, and just 
at the western base of the Garden mountain, on 
the main road from Lynchburg to the White 
Sulphur, by way of the James Kiver Canal. It is 
nineteen miles west, by a direct road, from the 
Natural Bridge, and twenty-eight miles from that 
place by the wtiy of Buchanan, the route usually 
traveled. 

The spring was first opened as a watering place 
some forty years ago, by a gentleman by the name 
of Daggai'j and hence its name. Subsequently, 
it was OAvned by the late James W. Dibrell, Esq. 
of Kichmond. The present proprietor is Mr. 
Shields, whose good cheer and kindly attention to 
his guests, makes him favorably knowii to the 
public. 

The improvements here are neat, appropriate 
and comfortable, and calculated for two hundred 
persons, - ^ 

The company that assembles at this place has 
heretofore been largely composed of persons from 
the towns and villages of the surrounding country^ 



daggar's springs. 297 

and from Eastern Virginia, constituting a most 
agreeable and sociable circle. Indeed, tlie place 
has long been remarkable for sociability, and there 
are few, if any situations in our mountains, where 
a period of relaxation from the cares and business 
of life can be more agreeably spent. Free and 
easy social intercourse, sanctioned and sustained 
by the polite courtesies of life, while it is delightful 
in itself, powerfully contributes to the relief of 
many ills that flesh is heir to. It well deserves to 
be taken into the account of the advantages ac- 
cruing to the invalid at watering places, and 
cannot for a moment be overlooked by those who 
resort to such places for pleasure merely. 

The spring, which arises at the termination of a 
pretty lawn in front of the hotel, and about two 
hundred yards distant from it, is a very bland and 
agreeable sulphur water, acting kindly as a 
diuretic^ aperient, and gentle alterative. Holding 
in solution essentially the same medicinal ingre- 
dients, though probably not in as large amount 
as distinguish our strongest sulphur waters, it 
may be used advantageously in the various 
diseases for which sulphur waters generally are 
employed. Being less exciting than many of 
them, and acting at the same time kindly on the 
various emunctories, it is better adapted to some 
cases than the more potent waters. 

Professor Eogers has examined this water 
chemically, but failed to make his analysis quan- 
titative. 



298 MINERAL WATERS OF VIRGINIA. 

The gaseous contents are found to consist of — ■ 
Carbonic acid, . Oxygen, 

Sulphuretted hydrogen, Nitrogen. 

The solid contents of — ■ 
Carbonate of magnesia. Sulphate of soda, 

Carbonate of soda. Chloride of sodium, 

Peroxide of iron. Silica dissolved. 

He also found organic matter, containing chloride 
of potassium J niti^ogen, carbonate of iron, and car- 
bonate of ammonia. 

Daggar's Springs are very valuable mineral 
waters. The character of the salts found to exist 
in them compares favorably with our first class 
sulphur waters. Their entire exemption from the 
sulphate and carbonate of lime, so commonly 
impregnating sulphur waters, while they hold in 
solution the carbonate, sulphate and chloride of 
sodium, with the chloride of potassium, is well 
worthy of note in estimating their value and 
peculiar adaptations. 

Their composition, while it points them out as 
a bland and agreeable remedy for irritable con- 
ditions of the stomach and bowels, particularly 
indicates their adaptation to gouty diathesis, and 
for several forms of cystic -and renal affections. 
Experience in the use of the waters has very satis- 
factorily shown, that, in diseases of the kidneys 
and bladder, attended with discharges of sabulous 
concretions,, (and, consequently, with a tendency 



daggar's springs. 299 



to calculus^) tliey liave been employed with excel- 
lent success. The benefit derived in such cases 
is due in part to their tendency to increase the 
flow of urine, thus affording an easier exit for the 
extraneous matter, and doubtless, in part, to their 
specific effects in alterating the fluids upon whose 
condition the morbid tendency depends. 

In simple Dyspepsia, these waters are found 
eminently serviceable ; and the same may be said 
of chronic affections of the abdominal viscera 
generally. 

In derangements of the hiliary organs, unat- 
tended with obstinate obstructions, they are used 
to great advantage. 

The Daggar's Springs are waters upon the use 
of which the invalid, who desires gentle aperient, 
diuretic, or alterative effects^ may enter with much 
hope, and without that fear of over-stimulating 
the organs which demands a prompt and decided 
caution in the use of many sulphur waters. 

Persons travelling from the South or Southwest, 
who wish to go to Daggar's, should leave the 
Virginia and Tennessee Eailroad at Buford's 
Depot, thirty-seven miles west of Lynchburg. 
From that point stages run over graded roads to 
Daggar's, a distance of twenty-eight miles. 

From the White Sulphur, Sweet, and Eed Sweet 
Springs, Daggar's are equi-distant, being about 
forty-three miles from either place. 



300 MINERAL WATERS OP VIRGINIA. 



COLD SULPHUR SPRING. 

This is a verj pleasant Sulphur Spring, about 
seven miles east of the Kockbridge Alum, and 
two miles west from Goshen Depot, on the Central 
Railroad, in the County of Kockbridge. 

The*\vater of this Spring has not been analyzed. 
It is distinctly of the sulphurous character, how- 
ever, and has acquired a considerable amount 
of favor as a medicinal agent, as well as a pleasant 
place of resort, with those who have visited it. 

The accommodations, under the management of 
the owner, Mr. Seech, are sufficient for about one 
hundred persons. 

The general medicinal adaptations of the water 
are the same as those of the other Sulphurous 
waters of the country, which have been fully 
noticed in treating of the White Sulphur waters, 
&c., &c. 

VARIETY SPRINGS. 

This name has been given to a series of fountains 
in close connection with each other, in the County 
of Augusta, seventeen miles west from the town 
of Staunton, and near the ^' Pond Gap" Station, 
on the Central Kailroad. 

These springs are entirely new in their intro- 
duction to public notice, and as yet very little 



VARIETY SPRINGS. — STRIBLINa'S SPRINGS. 301 

improvement has been made here for entertaining 
company. For -the last year or two they have 
been quite successful in attracting visitors from 
the immediate surrounxling country. 

The name Variety, applied to these springs, 
seems to be appropriate and well-chosen, as there 
are here not only an Alum and a Chalybeate 
spring, and one of the peculiar characteristics of 
the Healing spring, in the County of Bath, but 
also several others differing from all these, but 
of whose precise character have not been well 
defined. 

These waters have been too short a time in use 
to have established any thing like a definite 
record of their medicinal virtues or adaptations ; 
nor have any of them, I believe, been analyzed ; 
their favorable location, however, and the variety 
and promising character of their waters, bid fair 
to bring them prominently into public notice, and 
ultimately to induce to the erection of such im- 
provements as a growing patronage will demand. 

STRIBLING'S SPRINGS. 

This watering place has been known and visited 
for more than thirty years. It derives its name 
from Erasmus Stribling, Esq., who first improved 
it in reference to its mineral properties. 

These springs are in the county of Augusta, 
26 



302 MINERAL WATEES OF VIRGINIA. 

thirteen miles north of Staunton^ from which they 
may be conveniently reached by stage-coaches. 

For many years this place was valued mainly 
on account of its Sidplmr and Clialyheate waters^ 
but within the last few years an Alum Spring of 
much promise has been opened near the Sulphur 
fountain, and the place now presents the three 
varieties of Sulphur, Alum and Chalybeate, to the 
choice of the visitant. 

The Sulphur Spring has been long known as -a 
safe and valuable water of its kind, efficacious for 
the various diseases for which such waters are 
generally employed. 

Professor Campbell, of Washington College, has 
analyzed this spring, and produces the following 
results from a standard gallon of the water : 

Carbonic acid gas 8-250 cubic in. 3-899 grains. 

Sulph. hydrogen gas 2-470 " 0-912 

Sulphate of potassa^ 0-441 

of soda 0-812 

Chloride of sodium 0-610 

Carbonate of soda 1-203 

of lime 5-517 

" of magnesia 3-864 

Phosphate of lime 0-002 

Silicate of soda 0-253 

Organic matter 1-229 

18-772 
The Alum Spring has also been analyzed by 



STRIBLIXa'S SPRINGS. 303 

Professor Campbell, with the following results 
from a standard gallon of the water : 

Sulphate of iron 12-125 grains. 

Tersulphate of alumina 16*675 

Sulphate of potassa 1-324 

of lime 6-877 

" of magnesia — .... 3-371 

Chloride of sodium 0-640 

Crenate of ammonia 0-630 

Silica 1-550 

Free sulphuric acid 9-092 

Carbonic acid gas 3-575 



55-859 



A comparison of this analysis with that of the 
Kockbridge Alumj shows a striking similarity, 
not only in the character of the ingredients con- 
tained in the two waters, but also in the relative 
proportion of such ingredients. 

While this water holds in solution a larger 
amount of sulphate of iron, magnesia, and limey 
it contains somewhat less of alumina, 2^otassaj 
sodium, silica, and ammonia. The Kockbridge 
Alum, it will be seen, contains a greater weight 
of sulphuric and carbonic acid gas. 

While both public and professional opinion of 
the value of this water is very favorable, there 
seems, nevertheless, not to have been any con- 
siderable amount of careful and practical observa- 
tion of its peculiar therapeutic effects, in a large 
circle of cases. To ascertain the precise thera- 



304 MINERAL WATERS OF VIRGINIA. 

peutic agency and adaptation of a mineral water, 
it is a matter of the utmost importance that the 
pathological character of the cases submitted to 
its use should be accurately defined, and the 
effects of the water carefully noted ; under such a 
system of observation, a mineral water will soon 
make out its own independent record, to the great 
advantage of the invalid public, and to its own 
solid reputation. 

But in the absence of such actual observation of 
its effects, the essential similarity of this water to 
the Kockbridge waters, whose virtues and adapta- 
tions are now pretty well known, leaves no reason- 
able doubt of the great value of this spring ; and 
indicates with a good deal of clearness its adapta- 
tions to the various forms of diseases so happily 
treated by the waters whose chemical composition 
it so much resembles. 

Dr. Blair, who resides in the neighborhood of 
the spring, speaks favorably of its effects in 
Scrofula, Chronic Diarrhoea, diseases of the Shin, 
and in general debility. There can, we think, 
be no doubt of its useful employment in such 
cases. 

Dr. C. K. Harris recommends it highly in cases 
in which tonics or alteratives are indicated ; and 
Dr. J. L. Davis awards it to the credit of ^^re- 
lieving a G astro-enteritis and Chronic Dyspepsia, 
in his own case, of fifteen years' standing." 

Nature has been bountiful to Stribling's Springs, 



rawley's springs. 305 

not only in the variety of tlieir mineral waters, 
but in blessing tbem with a highly salubrious 
climate. Protected from the northern blasts by 
ranges of hills, delicate persons are well secured 
against the sudden vicissitudes of weather occur- 
ring early or late in the season, and may there- 
fore visit them earlier in the spring, and remain 
later in the fall, than might be prudent in more 
exposed situations. 



CHAPTER XIX. 



Rawley's Springs — Burner'' s Springs, or The Seven Fountains — 
Jordan's White Sulphur Springs — Shannondale Spnngs. 

RAWLEY'S SPRING. 

Eawley's Spring is sitaated on the southern 
slope of the North Mountain, in the County of 
Rockingham, twelve miles northwest from Har- 
risonburg, and about one hundred and twenty 
miles northeast from the White Sulphur; 

The Rawley water is a strong and pure cJialyhe- 
ate, and well adapted to cases requiring such a 
tonic. 

26* 



806 MINERAL WATERS OF VIRGINIA. 

The writer has had some personal experience in 
the use of this water, and for many years has 
been in the habit of occasionally directing its use 
in cases to which it is applicable. As a pure iron 
tonic, it deserves to stand at the very head of that 
class of remedies. 

In that class of female aifections dependent upon 
debility, or ivant of tone in the uterine system^ the 
water is an exceedingly valuable remedy. Its 
salutary effects in cases of this description are 
often as remarkable as they are gratifying, re- 
storing the functions of the debilitated organ, and 
imparting vigor and health to the whole system. 

The Eawley waters are the strongest chalybeate 
known to me ; and if their great tonic virtues 
were more generally known, and especially their 
very superior efficacy in the class of female de- 
rangements just alluded to, they would be much 
and beneficially resorted to by those who frequent 
watering places. 

In some forms of dyspepsia, and in nervous 
diseases with general debility and unattended 
with organic obstructions, these waters are used 
with great success. The same may be said of 
their employment in many cases of leucorrhoea 
and gleet, and especially in that peculiar form of 
nervous and mental debility, the frequent result 
of youthful improprieties. 

The water of this spring has never been 
analyzed^ but it is evident that the iron is held in 



burner's sprix&s. . 30T. 

solution in the form of a carbonate, which is the 
least irritating and the most efficient form in 
which it exists in mineral waters. 

The accommodations at Kawley's are not exten- 
sive — sufficient, perhaps, for one hundred and 
fifty persons, and about that number maj^ often 
be found there in the course of the season. 



BURNER'S SPRINGS, OTHERWISE CALLED THE 
SEVEN FOLT^TAINS, 

Are situated on the western base of the Massa-, 
nutten Mountain, in the County of Shenandoah. 

The position of these springs is elevated and 
salubrious, affording a pleasant and healthful 
resort for the invalid during the hot months of 
summer. The scenery around is picturesque and 
beautiful ; and from the summits of the Fort, 
and Massanutten Mountains, that surround the 
springs, unsurpassed in its extent and rural 
loveliness. 

In a bowl-like hollow, and within a circle whose 
radius does not exceed a few rods, rise the '■^ Seven 
Fountains/' not homogeneous, but differing in 
temperature and character from each other. 

The central spring is a sulphur water, and 
within a few yards of it, are two others of the 
same general character, but differing somewhat 
in temperature and chemical composition. At a 



308 MINERAL WATERS OF VIRGINIA. 

few pace distant are freestone, slate, and limestone 
springs, and very near, still another, called the 
Willow Spring, differing from all the others. 

The temperature of the Blue Sulphur is 60° 
Fah., and its water is reported to contain in its gas- 
eous contents, sulph. hydrogen and carh. acid ; and 
in its solid contents, sulph. soda, sulph. magnesia, 
sulph. lime, carbonate magnesia, carbonate lime, 
chloride calcium, chloride sodium, and proto- 
sulph. iron, but in what relative proportions has 
not been ascertained. 

The White Sulphur is reported to contain the 
same ingredients as the ^' Blue,'' with the ad- 
dition of the chloride of magnesia, and the except 
tion oi i\\Q proto-sidph. iron. 

Judging from the analysis before us, these two 
springs do not very essentially differ from each 
other. 

The Willow Spring, in its gaseous contents con- 
tains carbonic acid ; in its solids, carbonate soda, 
carbonate magnesia, carbonate lime, chloride 
sodium, alumina, and organic matter. 

The Chalybeate Spring is a carbonated water, 
in which is found carbonate of magnesia, lime, 
soda, and iron, with sulphates of soda and lime. 

The various Dyspeptic depravities, functional 
derangements of the ahdominal viscera, chronic 
diseases of the Shin, Kidneys and Bladder, as well 
as general debility, with nervous mobility, will be 
advantageously treated by these waters. 



Jordan's white sulphur springs. 309 

These s^^rings may be conveniently reached 
from Woodstochj eight miles distant. 

JORDAN'S WHITE SULPHUR SPRINGS. 

These springs are in Frederick County jYirginia^ 
five miles from the town of Winchester, and one 
and a half from Stephenson's Depot, a point on 
the Winchester and Harper's Ferry Railroad. 
They are situated in a small valley, surrounded 
hy hills of no great altitude. The earth in the 
vicinity of the springs is blended with slate, very 
porous, and readily absorbs all the water that 
falls upon it. Hence, it is as remarkable for its 
dryness, as is the neighborhood for its exemption 
from vapors and fogs. The grounds about the 
springs are well covered with grass ; are suffi- 
ciently extensive for pleasant promenades ; and, 
withal, are shaded by a variety of ornamental 
trees, among which are found the aspen, willow, 
sycamore, ash, cedar, etc. 

From several of the surrounding hills, pleasant 
views may be had of the Blue Eidge and Alleghany 
Mountains, and the immense gap at Harper's 
Ferry. One mile from the springs is a small and 
unique mountain, covered with stunted pine, and 
known by the somewhat *unpleasant cognomen of 
the ^^ Devil's Back Bone." It is quite a '' lion " 
in its way, and is often visited by the sojourners at 
'^ Jordan's." On the eastern side of this small 



310 MINERAL WATERS OF VIRGINIA. 

and narrow mountainj and just at its base, flows 
the Opaquan Creek, affording good fishing 
j)rivileges, while along its western base runs a 
small stream that winds its way through the 
spring lawn midway between the hotels. 

The buildings for the eptertainment of the 
public are very comfortable, and consist of two 
large brick hotels and a number of cabins, and 
are said to be sufficient for the accommodation of 
three hundred persons. 

The spring^ although not one of great boldness, 
affords in abundance a niild, pleasant sulphur 
water, of the temperature of 5Y° Fah., which is 
said not to be influenced either in quantity or 
temperature by wet or dry, hot or cold weather. 
Like all other sulphur waters^ it is unpleasant at 
first to the palate of the uninitiated, but very 
soon it is not only tolerated, but actually preferred 
to common water. 

The fountain is inclosed by marble slabs, and 
shaded by an octagon structure, supported by 
large pillars. Its situation is midway between the 
hotels, and very convenient to all the boarders. 

These waters have never been analyzed, though 
it will probably be found, judging from the 
geological position of the fountain, as well as 
from the sensible propei^ties of the water itself, to 
contain less lime than many of our sulphur waters, 
and, therefore, more free from the harsh ingredi- 
ents imparted by the sulphate and carbonate of 



Jordan's white sulphur springs, 311 

that mineral ; while it holds in solution the other 
components usuall}^ found in our sulphur waters. 
If this suggestion be correct, it points it out as" 
peculiarly valuable in gravel and the various 
chronic diseases of the kidneys, bladder and 
urethra. 

Medicinally, the water acts as a diuretic and 
slight aperient. As an alterative, it is found to 
be valuable in the various forms of chronic disease 
in which sulphur waters are commonly beneficial. 
Among other diseases, dysjoejma and the various 
gastric derangements have derived much benefit 
from its use. The same may be said of liver 
disease, licemorrlioids , disease of the shin, and rheu- 
matism, especially when it proceeds from the use 
of mercury. Several gentlemen have borne very 
decided "testimony to the superior efficacy of these 
waters in gout, and their unirritating quality 
would seem to point them out as a valuable 
remedy in that disease. 

Physicians of eminence, long familiar with the 
use of this water, speak in the highest terms of 
its efficacy in Jaundice, and in the functional 
derangements of the ahdominal viscera generally. 
They extol it as a valuable remedy in the various 
chronic affections of the skin ; in chronic irritation 
of the kidneys and bladder; in gleet, and espe- 
cially in female suppressions, unattended with 
acute symptoms. 

The bland but sure effect of these waters upon 



312 MINEKAL WATERS OF VIUaiNIA. 

the system, points tliem out as a valuable agent 
in a large class of diseases, and inspires belief as 
to tlieir succ'essful attainment to still greater 
public favor and confidence. 

The situation of the spring and countr}^ around 
it, with the many facilities of approach, etc. ; its 
nearness to the seaboard, and the daily cars and 
mails, make it a most desirable place of resort for 
health or retirement during the heat of summer. 
The surrounding country is healthy, and the soil 
well calculated for invalids, as it never remains 
long wet after rains. 

SHAISTNONDALE SPEIKGS. 

The SJiannondale Springs are in the County of 
Jefferson, and arise in a peninsula of the*Shenan- 
doah River, known as the ^^ Horse Shoe." They 
are five and a half miles from Charlestown, the 
seat of justice for Jefferson County. 

The springs are three in number, but one only 
is principally used. The temperature of the 
water is 55° Fah., as reported by Dr. De Butts. 

The Shannondale water seems to have some 
approximation in its nature and effects to the 
celebrated Bedford water. It may properly be 
classed as a saline chalybeate, and may be used 
with good effects as a mild alterative tonic, in 
some forms of dyspepsia, nervous diseases, general 
debility unattended with severe organic derange- 



SHANNONDALE SPRINGS. 313 

ments, chronic diseases of tlie mucous surfaces, 
such as gleet, leuchorrhoea, etc., and to that 
class of female diseases requiring the aid of 
mineral tonics. 

The water acts generally as a diuretic, and very 
commonly has a mild aperient effect. 

The late Dr. De Butts, of Baltimore, analyzed 
the Shannondale water in 1821. 

One hundred grains of the solid contents of the 
water of the principal fountain, afforded the 
following results : — 

Sulphate of lime G3 grains. 

Carbonate of lime 105 

Sulphate of magnesia 23'5 

Muriate of magnesia 1 

Muriate of soda '. 1 

Sulphate of iron 0'3 

Carbonate of iron 0.7 

Gaseous contents : Sulph. hydrogen, quantity not ascertained ♦ 
carbonic acid, quantity not ascertained. 

The accommodations at Shannondale are not 
extensive, perhaps adapted to one hundr^ed and 
forty or one hundred and fifty persons, hut it 
is admittedly a very delightful place, and the 
scenery is unsurpassed for its varied heauty and 
grandeur, eliciting the admiration of all who 
behold it. 



27 



314 MINERAL WATERS OF VIRGINIA. 



CHAPTER XX. 

BATH OE BERKELEY SPRINGS. 

Early History — Extract from General Washington's Will, &c. — 
Batlis and Bathing Houses — Medical Properties of the Waters — ■ 
Diseases for ichich Used, &c. — OrricKs Sulphur Spring — Capon 
Springs. 

The Berkeley Springs are situated in the town 
of Bath, Morgan County, Virginia, two miles and 
a half from Sir John's Depot, a point on the 
Baltimore and Ohio Railroad, one hundred and 
thirty miles west of Baltimore, and forty-nine 
miles east of Cumberland. 

These springs were resorted to by invalids at 
a very early period, and had great celebrity 
throughout the Colonies. Hundreds annually 
flocked thither from all quarters, and traditional 
accounts of the accommodations and amusements 
of those primitive times are calculated to excite 
both the mirth and envy of the jpresent age. 
Rude log huts, board and canvas tents, and even 
covered v/agons, served as lodging-rooms, while 
every party brought its own substantial provisions 
of flour, meat, and bacon, depending for lighter 
articles of diet on the ^^Hill folk/' or the success 
of their own foragers. A large hollow scooped in 



BATH Oil BERKELEY SPRINGS. 315 

the sand, surrounded by a screen of pine brusli, 
was the only bathing-house ; and this was used 
alternately by ladies and gentlemen. The time 
set apart for the ladies was announced by a blast 
on a long tin horn, at which signal all of the 
opposite sex retired to a prescribed distance, and 
woe to any unlucky wight who might be found 
within the magic circle. 

The whole scene is said to have resembled a 
camp-meeting in appearance ; but only in 
appearance. Here day and night passed in a 
round of eating and drinking, bathing, fiddling, 
dancing, and reveling. G-aming was carried to 
a great excess, and horse-racing was a daily 
amusement. 

Such were the primitive accommodations at the 
first watering place that was opened in Virginia, 
and such the recreations and amusements of our 
forefathers, about the eventful period that ushered 
us as a nation into the world. 

The importance of this property was appreciated 
by the country at a very early period, for in 
October, 1776, in the first year of the Common- 
wealth, we find the following in the statute book 
of Virginia : — 

'^Whereas it hath been represented to the 
General Assembly, that the laying off of fifty 
acres of land in lots and streets, for a town at the 
Warm Springs in the County of Berkeley, will be 



316 MINERAL WATERS OF VIRGINIA. 

of great utility, by encouraging the purchasers 
thereof to build convenient houses for accommo- 
dating numbers of infirm persons who frequent 
those springs yearly for the recovery of their 
health, — • 

^'^Be it therefore enacted by the General 
Assembly of the Commonwealth of Virginia, that 
fifty acres of land adjoining the said springs, 
being part of a larger tract of land, the property 
of the Right Honorable Thomas Lord Fairfax, or 
other person or persons holding the same by a 
grant or conveyance from him, be, and the same 
is hereby invested in Bryan Fairfax, Thomas 
Bryan Mastin, Warner Washington, Rev. Charles 
M. Thruston, Robert Rutherford, Thomas Ruther- 
ford, Alexander White, Philip Pendleton, Samuel 
Washington, William Ellzey, Yan Swearengen, 
Thomas Hite, James Edmunson, James Nourse, 
gentlemen trustees, to be by them, or any seven of 
them, laid out into lots of one-quarter of an acre 
each, with convenient streets, which shall be, and 
the same are hereby established a town by the 
name of Bath," etc. etc. (Hening's Statutes at 
Large.) 

The town was consequently laid oif into lots in 
August, 1777. Among the purchasers were 
Charles Carroll, of Carrollton, Horatio GateSj 
Gen. George Washington, and many others of 
note and distinction. 



BATH OR BERKELEY SPRINGS. 31T 



In the sclieclule to Gen. Wasliingtou's will, we 
find the following clause : — 



"BATH OR WARM SPRINGS. 

'^Two well-situatecl and handsome buildings, 
to the amount of £150." 

And this note of the property appended to the 
schedule : — 

^^'bath. 

^'The lots in Bath (two adjoining) cost me, to 
the best of my recollection, between fifty and sixty 
j)Ounds, twenty years ago. Whether property 
there has increased or decreased in value, and in 
what condition the houses are, I am ignorant ; 
but suppose they are not valued too high." 

The sites of these houses are still pointed out. 

In the memoirs of the Baroness de Keidesil, 
(wife of the German general who was taken 
prisoner with Burgoyne at Saratoga,) she speaks 
of having passed part of the summer of 1779 at 
these springs with her invalid husband, and 
mentions having made the acquaintance of Gen. 
Washington's family. She devotes a page or- two 
of her most interesting work to the narration of 
quaint and pleasant incidents illustrating their 
mode of life at the springs, and at the same time 



27^ 



318 MINERAL WATERS OF VIRGINIA. 

illustrating (tliougli unintentionally) the excel- 
lent and amiable cliaracter of the authoress. 

After the war of the Kevolution, the accommo- 
dations at the springs were greatly improved and 
extended ; but as the State progressed in popula- 
tion and prosperity, a host of other bathing places 
and mineral springs were discovered and 
improved. Saratoga at the North, and the White 
Sulphur at the South, began to rival Berkeley in 
the race for public favor, and from the superior 
spirit and enterprise shown in their improvement, 
soon distanced her. Her register of thousands 
was reduced to five or six hundred per annum, 
and her hotels and bath-houses seemed destined to 
decay. In 1844 a fire accomplished in one night 
what time was doing gradually ; fourteen build- 
ings and half the hotel accommodations were 
destroyed. Col. John Strother, lessee of this 
property, made immediate preparations for the 
erection of a large hotel on his own ground, and 
by the next season, (1845,) had a portion of it 
ready for occupancy, and the entire elegant and 
extensive establishment completed in 1848. The 
erection of this building, and the completion of 
the Baltimore and Ohio Kailroad, have restored 
Berkeley to her former prosperity; and from 
twelve to fifteen hundred annually register there 
and enjoy the great luxury of her waters. 



BATH OR BERKELEY SPRINGS. 319 



BATHS. Etc. 

The water supplying the baths, issues by 
three large springs and a Ruoiber of smaller 
ones, from the foot of the Warm Spring Kiclge, 
all witbin seventy or eighty yards of each other, 
forming a bold and beautiful stream, whichj in its 
course down the valley, supplies several mills and 
factories, and empties into the Potomac opposite to 
Hancock, Maryland, six miles distant. The water 
of all these fountains is of the same character, 
light, sparkling and tasteless, its temperature 
ranging from 72° to 74° Fab, and remaining the 
same at all seasons. 

The accommodations for bathing are most con- 
venient, extensive, and elegant. 

The gentlemen s bath-house a substantial brick 
building, contains ten large bathing-rooms. The 
baths are of cement, twelve feet long, five feet 
wide, and four and a half deep, filled from a 
reservoir by a four-inch pipe, and containing 
about sixteen hundred gallons each. In addition 
to this, and for the use of gentlemen, there is a 
swimming bath, sixty feet long by twenty wide, 
and five feet deep, containing fifty thousand 
gallons. The superstructure is handsome and 
tasteful, eighty-two feet long, and^ contains 
fourteen dressing-rooms. The luxury of dis- 
porting in this ample and exhilarating pool can 



320 MINERAL WATERS OF VIRGINIA. 

only be appreciated by those who have indulged 
in it. 

The ladies' bath-house is an elegant structure 
on the opposite side of the grove, ninety feet long, 
which contains, in addition to nine private baths, 
a plunge bath thirty feet long by sixteen feet 
wide, four and a half feet deep, and floored with 
white marble. There is also an establishment for 
shower, spout and artificial warm baths. The 
bathing area is surrounded by a beautiful grove 
several acres in extent and handsomely improved. 

The liotel accommodations are extensive and well 
gotten up. 

Strothers, the principal hotel at the place, is 
a large, elegaut and well conducted establishment, 
adjoining the grove, and will comfortably accom- 
modate about four hundred persons. Altogether, 
it constitutes one of the most extensive and 
comfortable establishments to be found at any of 
our places of fashionable resort. 

O'FerralTs hotel is conveniently situated, well 
kept, and will accommodate one hundred and 
fifty persons. Other accommodations for one 
hundred and fifty persons may be found at the 
place. 

MEDICAL PROPERTIES. 

Although these waters possess considerable 
medical virtues when taken internally, they have 
been most celebrated as a hath; their pleasant 



BATH OR BERKELEY SPRINGS. 321 

tliermal temperature, in connection witli other 
properties, adapting tliem, as such, to a wide 
range of diseases. They have never been accu- 
rately analyzed, but the presence of j)urgative 
and diuretic salts have been ascertained, though 
the impregnation is not strong and the amount 
uncertain. 

Internal Use. — This water is tasteless, insipid 
from its warmth, and so light in its character, 
that very large quantities may be taken on the 
stomach without producing oppression or uneasi- 
ness. Persons generally become fond of it after a 
time ; and when cooled it is a delightful beverage. 
It is beneficial in several of the chronic and 
subacute disorders, such as derangements of the 
stomach, with impaired appetite and feeble 
digestion, unconnected with any considerable 
degree of organic disease. Its salutary effects in 
these cases would seem to depend upon the 
exceedingly light character of the waters and their 
gentle alkaline properties, neutralizing acidity 
and invigorating and soothing the viscera. 

In the early stages of calculous diseases, attended 
with irritable bladder, their free use internally 
and externally is frequently of benefit. 

External Use. — Externally used, these waters 
are baneficial in the whole class of nervous dis- 
orders that are disconnected with a full plethoric 



322 MINERAL WATERS OF VIRGINIA. 

liabitj extreme debility, or severe organic de- 
rangements. 

In cases of relaxed habit and debility, where 
sufficient power of reaction exists in the system, 
the tonic and bracing influences of plunges in 
this water will be very invigorating. 

Persons suffering from a residence in a warm, 
low, and damp climate, and subject to nervous 
affections, will probably be much benefited by the 
use of the baths. 

To the various chronic affections of the mucous 
membranes, especially leucorrhoea, gleet, etc., as 
well as to that peculiar form of bronchitis which 
depends upon a relaxed condition of the mem- 
branes, with general want of tone in the nervous 
system, the water and baths are said to be highly 
beneficial. The same may be said as to local 
paralytic affections, if unconnected with congestion 
of the brain, or cerebral tendencies. 

In mildly chronic, or subacute rheumatism, the 
bath has long enjoyed a high reputation. Many 
intelligent persons who have long been familiar 
with its use, place the most entire reliance on it in 
this class of c§,ses. 

The salubrious climate in which the springs 
are located, the ease with which they are reached 
by the Baltimore and Ohio Eailroad, the well- 
tested value of their baths in all cases in which 
baths of their temperature ought to be employed, 
together with the excellent accommodations at the 



CAPON SPRINGS. 323 

place, must continue to make ^^ Berkeley" a 
favorite resort of tlie spring-going public. 

There are in the immediate vicinity of Berkeley 
several unimproved sulphur and chalybeate 
springs, that will probably, at some day or other, 
be places of importance. Among these, and as 
most prominent, may be mentioned 

ORRICK'S SULPHUR SPRING, 

Situated three and a half miles from Berkeley, on 
the Warm Spring Kun, and near the road that 
leads to Hancock. It is a very pleasant water, of 
the temperature of about 58° Fah. It is now 
unimproved, but may, and some day probably 
will, be made a place of interest, and an important 
auxiliary to the Berkeley Springs. 

CxVPON SPRINGS. 

At the western base of the North Mountain, in 
the County of Hampshire, seventeen miles east of 
Komney, and twenty-two northwest of Winchester, 
whence they may be reached by a well-graded but 
mountainous road, are the Capon Springs. They 
are situated in a narrow vale not far distant from 
the Capon Kiver, and surrounded by a rugged and 
romantic mountain scenery, perhaps unsurpassed 
in trossach wildness by any in Virginia. The 
region is high and healthy, and the sources of 
amusement, (often of consequence to the invalid,) 



324 MINERAL WATERS OF VIRGINIA. 

and especially those of trout and river fishing, 
together with the excitement of the mountain 
chase, are unsurpassed at any of our watering 
places. 

The improvements at Capon are extensive, 
affording accommodation for about seven hundred 
and fifty persons. 

The largest building to be found at any of our 
watering places except the White Sulphur, is here. 
It is an immense structure fronting two hundred 
and thirty-six feet by forty, and five stories high ; 
with a portico two hundred feet in length by 
sixteen in width. To this main building a wing 
is attached of one hundred and ninety-six feet in 
length by forty in width and Rve stories high. 
The dining-room extends the entire length of the 
front building, and will conveniently seat from 
nine hundred to one thousand persons. The 
lodging capacit}^ of the house is said to be six 
hundred. This building is known as the 
'^Mountain House.'' Besides this large establish- 
ment, there are other hotels at the place capable 
of accommodating one hundred and fifty persons, 
perhaps. 

The bathing establishment at Capon is well 
designed and handsome, affording twenty bathing- 
rooms for gentlemen, and seventeen for ladies, 
with comfortable parlors for the use of the 
bathers. The baths are made of brick, coated 



CAPON SP11IXG3. 325 

with hydraulic cement. Shower and douche 
baths^ and artificial warm baths are also supplied. 

The spring affords about one hundred gallons 
of water per minute. The temperature of the 
water as it flows fi'om the fountain is 66° 
Fab.; in the reservoir that supplies the baths, 
about 64°. 

The water is essentiall}^ tasteless and inodorous. 

Except in its thermal character, it cannot be 
compared to any of the springs in our " great 
spring region." It more resembles tlie waters of 
tiie Berkeley than any of our other springs. As 
a bath and a beverage, it will, when properly 
directed, be found very useful in a wide range of 
diseases, especially in idiopathic affections of the 
nervous system, dyspeptic depravities, chronic 
derangement of the mucous surfaces, etc. It has 
acquired some reputation, and I believe justly, as 
a remedy in gravel and other derangements of the 
urinary organs. It is a valuable water, and like 
its neighbor Berkeley, is destined to increase in 
favor with the spring-going public. 

The Capon waters have been analyzed by Dr. 
Charles Carter, of Philadelphia, and their princi- 
pal medicinal ingredients ascertained to be 

Silicic acid. Magnesia, 

Soda, Bromine, 

Carbonic acid gas. Iodine. 

The late Professor William Gibson, of the 
28 



326 MINERAL WATERS OF VIRGINIA. 

University of Pennsylvania, thus speaks of Capon 
Springs: — 

•'I consider Capon equal, if not superior, to any 
D^ineral spring in America, as a remedy for 
dyspepsia and the debility and depression of spirits 
generally attendant upon that protean and 
eccentric malady, 

'^ After drinking the water for a few hours, its 
diuretic properties become very evident ; and from 
that moment the invalid begins to experience its 
beneficial results ; for no matter how much he has 
been prostrated, his peccant humors are floated 
away through the medium of the kidneys, his 
spirits rise, his activity increases, and in a 
wonderfully small space of time he becomes a new^ 
man. The only inconvenience attending its use 
is an amazing increase of appetite ; so much so, 
that the most feeble and delicate stomachs, after a 
few days, become boundless in their demands upon 
the good cheer of the obliging and enterprising 
landlord. Not only does the water, wdien taken 
internally, prove eminently useful to almost every 
one; but externally applied, in the shape of cold 
or warm baths, its beneficial results in cases of 
gout, rheumatism, diseases of the skin, and 
several other affections, are beyond all question. 
It has, moreover, the singular property of 
cleansing the skin instantly witliout soap, of 
removing' tar atid other similar substances from 



CAPOX SPRINGS. 327 

the hands the moment it is applied. It operates 
most powerfully, too, upon horses, in a very short 
time after it is used, and brings aAvay from those 
animals, without failure, incredible quantities of 
botts-T—n species of worm- to Avhicli almost every 
animal of tlie kind is very prone, and from which 
a great number annually perish. When it is con- 
sidered how difficult and almost impossible it is by 
other means to kill a bott — for when taken from 
the stomach of a horse and placed in the strongest 
nitric acid, tliey have been known to live for 
hours — does not this flict alone speak volumes in 
favor of this water? I am told, upon high 
authority, 'also, that it is equally useful ia 
bringing away intestinal worms from children, 
after every other vermifuge has proved unavailing 
and nugatory. 

^^All the facts I have here stated have been 
verified again and again, and are as familiar to 
the people of Hampshire and the adjoining 
counties, and are as susceptible of demonstration 
to all that visit these springs, as any proposition 
in Euclid," 



328 MmEKAL WATERS OF VIRGINIA. 



CHAPTER XXT. 

Coiners Black and White Sulphur — Roanoke Bed Sulphur — Blue 
Bidge Springs — Alleghany Spnings — Montgomery White Sulphur 
Springs. 

COINER'S WHITE AND BLACK SULPHUR SPRINGS. 

These springs are situated at the western base of 
the Blue Ridge Mountain ;, on the line between 
the Counties of Botetourt and Roanoke, on the 
borders of one of the most delightful and fertile 
regions of Virginia. They are immediately on 
the line of the Virginia and Tennessee Railroad, 
and within a mile of Bonsack's Depot, fifty miles 
west from Lynchburg. 

These springs, as a public resort, are a product 
of the recent rapid spring development in Virginia, 
having been brought into public notice Avithin the 
last four or five years. Fleming James, Esq., of 
Richmond, is tlie owner of the property, and has 
with extraordinary energy, and liberal appropria- 
tions to the object, improved them handsomely, 
and to an extent capable of entertaining from 
three to four hundred persons. The buildings are 
spacious, convenient, and almost entirely new, 
consisting of hotels, cottages, etc., etc. 



CAPOX SPRING-S. • 329 

AVe bad some expectation of being fiirnisbed 
witb an analysis of tbese springs before tbis 
volume went to press, and regret tbat it bas not 
been supplied. My personal observation of tbeir 
effects in bealtb and disease, is too limited to 
enable me to speak positively of tbeir medicinal 
peculiarities or powers, and, in tbe absence of an 
analysis, prudence restricts me from considering 
their therapeutic character, except in the light of 
analogy, and from the experience of their use by 
a few gentlemen who seem to be well qualified to 
judge of their powers. From such light, I believe 
that these waters will be found a safe and beneficial 
remedy in a large class of cases usually success- 
fully treated by the mild sulphur waters that 
exist in the same general geological region. 

In cases of difncult, imperfect, or painful diges- 
tion^ enfeebled condition of the nervous system, 
chronic diseases of the bladder or kidneys, salt 
rheum, tetters, indolent liver, with deficient or 
vitiated secretions, and to some of the affections 
peculiar to females, they v/ill be found well 
adapted. 

Coiner's Springs are convenient of approach 
either from the East or West, being only ten 
hours by rail, from Richmond or Petersburg, 
about two and a half from Lynchburg, and ten 
from Abingdon. 

28=^ 



330 MINERAL WATERS OF VIRGINIA. 



ROANOKE RED SULPHUR SPRING. 

This is one of the new places of valetudinary 
and pleasure resorts wliicli the recent ardor for 
spring improvement has brought to the public 
view . 

It is situated in the County of Koanoke, on the 
stage-road from the town of Salem to the Sweet 
Springs, ten miles from the former, and about 
forty from the latter place. 

It is called Red Sulphur from the color of its 
deposits, and from its supposed resemblance, as a 
medicinal agent, to the old Eed Sulphur in the 
County of Monroe. 

The vv^aters of this fountain have not been 
analyzed, nor have they as yet so far made out 
their medical record of applicabilities and cures, 
as to enable me to speak of them with such particu- 
larity as I could desire. 

They are mild and pleasant sulphurous waters, 
and no doubt will be found well adapted to a 
numerous class of cases successfully treated by 
such waters. An intelligent and reliable friend, 
residing in the neighborhood, has assured me 
that they have been used with excellent effect in 
several cases of affections of the chest and stomachy 
and they are favorably spoken of by many persons 
who have visited them. 

These springs may be conveniently reached 



BLUE EIDGE SFRIXGS. 



either from theVirginia ciiid Tennessee Eaiirotid at 
Salem, or from the Sweet Springs in j^lonroe, in 
stages, or by private conveyance, over well-graded 
roads. 



BLUE RIDGE SPRINGS. 

The Blue Eidge Springs are situated in the 
County of Botetourt, on the western slope, and 
not far from the summit of the Blue Eidcjc Moun- 
tain, 1,300 feet above tide water ; in a salubrious 
and healthful climate, and immediately on the 
Virginia and Tennessee Eailroad. 

Although but recent aspirants for public favor, 
they have already become Avell knov\^n to many 
visitants ; but still more extensively to distant 
invalids who have been benefited by their trans- 
ported luaters. 

While the general notoriety of these waters 
dates back but a few years, they liave been long 
and favorably known to the hahitucs of the sur- 
rounding country, who, for more than tAventy 
years, have been in the habit of using them fur 
the cure of various diseases. It is only, however, 
within the last five or six years that their curative 
powers became so prominent as to induce an asso- 
ciated effort for the general improvement of the 
property, and to facilitate the transportation of 
the waters to distant parts of the country. 

In the nomenclature of Mineral Waters, the 



332 MINERAL WATERS OF VIRGINIA. 

Blue Eidge Springs proper'] j belongs to the Class 
known as Saline A¥aters. In local situation, 
they occup}^ a central position, geographically 
and geologically, of the great mineral range ex- 
tending from Harper's Ferry in the north, to the 
Chilhowee Mountains in the south. All along 
tliis entire range, this Class of Waters arc found ; 
varying somewhat in their ingredients, hut all 
essentially belonging to the same general class. 
Nor is this valuable class of waters found in any 
other portion oF our continent in the same abund- 
ance and purity. 

The Springs that represent the extremes of this 
extensive geological line are the Ilontvale, in 
Blount County, Tennessee, and the Shenandale ^ in 
Jefferson County, Virginia, distant more than 450 
miles apart. In the intermediate space betwee-n 
these extremes, evidences are afforded in various 
places along the mountains of the existence of 
similar waters ; but their existence in purity and 
in sufficient quantity for general use have only 
been demonstrated and brought before the public 
in the Springs of '' Shenandale," "BlueKidge," 
and "Alleghany," in Virginia, and in "Mont- 
vale," in Tennessee. 

The " Blue Bidge" and " Alleghany " are about 
30 miles apart, and are so entirely alike in the 
general character of their waters, that apart from 
the reiinements of chemical tests, they may be 
said to be identical. Certainly, far more so than 



BLUE EIDGE SPRINGS. 333 

mineral waters of the same class, but arising in 
different neigliborlioods, even in the same geo- 
logical range, are usually Ibund to be. 

Dr. John H. Griffin, an eminent and discrimi- 
nating physician, of Salem, Virginia, who has 
been much in the habit of using both waters in 
his practice, regards them as so entirely identical 
in their effects, as to render it a matter of conve- 
nience as to which he prescribes when the nature 
of the case demands the use of either. 

In the class of Saline Waters, are comprised 
those springs that contain a sufficient amount of 
neutral salts to occasion the marked effects of such 
agents, and especially purgative operations. 

The salts most commonly found in waters of 
this class are the Carbonates, Sulphates and Muri- 
ates — such as the Carbonates o^ Magnesia oy Lime, 
the Sulphates of Magnesia and Soda, and the 
Mm^iate of Soda and Lime. Iron and Alumina, in 
some of their forms, are frequently found, while 
other active salts sometimes contribute to form 
their valuable combinations. 

The Blue Kidge water has not been quantita- 
tively analyzed with such care and precision as to 
decide with precise accuracy the relative qualities 
of its several ingredients. Enough upon this 
subject is chemically known, however^ to enable 
us with confidence to decide upon its true classifi- 
cation ; while actual experience in its use fully 
demonstrates the fact, that in medical efficiencv it 



d34 MINERAL VfATERS OF VIRGrNIx\. 

stands as a liigli and potent representative of this 
class of waters. 

In saline waters, strictly so called, the propor- 
tion of gaseous matter is generally small. In this 
particular water there is no evidence of any un-' 
combined or free gas ; and this, in connection 
with the important fact that it holds its various 
salts so iirnily in solution, that not the slightest 
deposit takes place, from its agitation or long 
standing, adapts it most happily for transportation 
and profitahle medicinal use long after its removal 
from the fountain. 

MEDICINAL EFFECTS. 

The medicinal effects of these waters are mildly 
laxative or actively purging, in proportion to the 
quantity drank and the excitability of the bowels. 

Simply as a purgative, they are vastly superior 
in chronic disease to the ordinary drugs of the 
apothecary. Principally in this, that the invalid 
may keep up their action upon the bowels for a 
number of days without suffering that general 
debility or loss of appetite which so constantly 
occurs from a similar course of the ordinary 
l)urging medicines. 

In small or aperient doses they act kindly and 
beneficially upon the Iddneys and sldn, and es- 
pecially v/hen gentle exercise is connected with 
their use. 



BLUE RIDGE SPRINGS. odo 

Administered in the same guarded way, they 
exert a happy influence upon the mucous surfaces, 
as well as upon tlie serous, synovial and fibrous 
membranes. Such influences are Avitnessed in 
chronic catarrh, mucous diarrhoea, rlieumatic 
aftections of the joints, etc., etc. 

Tliey both primarily and secondarily exert 
favorable influences upon the glandular secre- 
tions. This is sometimes marked in the relief 
they afford in Jaiinclice and other diseases of the 
glandular structure. 

In Dyspepsia they have acquired a more estab- 
lished reputation, perhaps, than in any other form 
of disease, mainly, we presume, from the fact that 
they have been more extensively employed in this 
than in any other single form of disease. 

Dyspepsia is multiform, both in its causes and 
its pathology, and hence no one remedy is equally 
well adapted to all its forms and phases. But as 
a general remedy adapted to meet the general 
Avant in the various dyspeptic depravities, this 
Avater and its kindred class occupy a decidedly 
high position among tlie most valued remedies in 
such cases. 

I by no means intend to assert tliat this or any 
other mineral Avater, or any article of the apothe- 
cary, is an infiiUible remedy in all dyspeptic cases : 
such a position Avould be alike extravagant and 
uncandid. But I fully endorse the trutliful I'e- 
sults of experience, that such Avaters are among 



Ool) MINBilAL WATERS OF VIRGINIA. 

our best remedies in all such cases ; always safe 
when prudently used, and often effective where 
the usual remedies of the profession have failed. 

If called upon to say in what particular form of 
dyspepsia these waters may be most relied upon, 
I would say in cases attended witli mucous secre- 
tions, and which often develop alarming palpita- 
tions and other unpleasant neuralgia affections. 
Bat I by no means regard their efficacy in dys- 
pepsia as limited to such cases. 

In cJironic mucous diarrhoea, alike common and 
fatal in our Southern latitudes, the prudent use of 
this v/ater is eminently proper. In all cases of 
this kind the water should be used in small and 
frequently repeated doses, and its influence upon 
the secreting surfaces encouraged by the occa- 
sional use of a warm bath when such an adjunct 
can be commanded. A departure from this rule 
of ])rudence as to the quantity of the water to be 
usedj v/ould cause it rather to aggravate than 
benefit the case. 

In disorders of the kidneys and bladder, attended 
with solulus concretions and consequently witli 
tendency to calculus, these waters may be looked 
to as a hopeful source of relief. Their efficacy in 
such cases may be attributed mainly to the altera- 
tive changes tliey effect in the blood, and upon 
the seci'ctory and absorbing functions, and to their 
increasing the flow of urine^ tlius giving an easier 
passage to tlie extraneous matter, which, when 
long retained, proves painful and injurious. 



BLUE RIDGE SPRINGS. 337 

As a general rule, from two to eight lialf-pint 
glasses of this water may be taken within the 
twenty-four hours. 

Some patients will hear with advantage a some- 
what larger amount, after their system has 
established a perfect tolerance for the water , but 
as a general rule the proper quantity lies with 
the extremes mentioned. 

From four to six glasses a day are the quan- 
tities best adapted to the largest number of in- 
valids. 

Neither this nor any other mineral water should 
be used at indiscriminate periods through the day 
as a mere assuager of thirst, but at such periods 
only as have been indicated. 

In chronic diarrhoea, or any other case of high 
susceptibility of the bowels, the quantities of 
water used at first must be suaall and with long 
intervals between the drinks, but may be gently 
increased as the system is found to bear it. In 
such cases, half a glass at a time is as much as 
the patient ought to take on commencing its use. 

ALLEGHANY SPRINGS. 

The Alleghany Springs are situated on the south 
fork of Koanoke Eiver, in the County of Mont- 
gomery, three and a half miles south of the 
Virginia and Tennessee Kailroad at Shawsville, 
whence they may be conveniently reached by 
29 



338 MINERAL WATERS OJP VIRaiNIA. 

stage-coaches which, run hetween the two points. 
They are eighteen miles southwest from the town 
of Salem, and ten miles east from Christians- 
burg. 

The property was improved hy the Messrs. 
Holts. Mr. Cahoun is its present proprietor — 
furnishing comfortable accommodations for two 
or three hundred visitors. 

Although the Alleghany Springs have been 
long esteemed valuable by persons in their im- 
mediate neighborhood, it is only within the last 
five or six years, that they have attracted much 
general attention. 

The waters have not been analyzed. They are 
regarded, however, and I have no doubt correctly, 
as belonging distinctly to the saline class, and to 
abound especially in sulphate of magnesia. They 
are cathartic, diuretic, and tonic in their influences,, 
and many patients, together with several judicious 
physicians who have tested their virtues, regard 
them as very valuable medicinal agents in various 
diseases affecting the stomach and chylopoetic 
viscera. 

Assuming that the general opinion which con- 
cedes to them distinct, and strong saline quality, 
is correct, we have but little difficulty in assigning 
to them a sphere of itnportant usefulness. 

The saline are among the most ancient of ihQ 
various classes of mineral waters that were used 
for the cure of disease ; and the general range of 



ALLEGHANY SPRINGS. 339 

tlieir applicability may be considered as pretty 
well defined. 

Such waters exert but an inconsiderable effect 
upon tlie sanguiferous and nervous systems; tbeir 
efficacy mainly depending on their laxative and 
purgative operations^ by which the alimentary 
canal is excited to copious secretions, and the 
secretory functions of' the liver and pancreas are 
stimulated to pour out their approj)riate fluids ; 
besides, like other mineral waters, they are 
absorbed^ and conveyed through the whole course 
of the circulation, and are applied in their medical 
efficacy to the capillary tissues, and glandular 
organs. The sympathy between the digestive 
canal, upon which they Operate primarily, and 
all the other organs of the body, prepares us for 
witnessing the happy effects which they often 
exert upon the latter organs, by their direct effects 
upon the former. 

Where no considerable irritation or inflamma- 
tion exists in the mucous membrane of the stomach 
and bowels, saline mineral loaters will be found 
valuable in relieving congestion or irritation of 
distant organs ; first, by copious evacuation of 
fluids ; and second^ by derivation of blood from 
them to the superficies of the portal system.* 
Affections of the head, chest, skin and joints, will 
often be greatly benefitted by their prudent use. 



Bell. 



340 MINERAL WATERS OF VIRGINIA. 

From the alDSorption of saline matters, contained 
in sucli waters, and possibly from the force of 
sympathy from other organs, the secretions of the 
kidneys and skin are commonly much increased. 
Such results, often highly heneficial, generally 
ensue from doses falling short of the quantity 
usually taken to produce active purging. 

The waters of the Alleghany Springs, like all 
waters of the saline class, purge mildly or actively, 
in proportion to the quantity drunk and the 
peristaltic excitability of the bowels. Simply as 
a purgative, they are very superior in many chronic 
diseases to the drugs ordinarily used for this pur- 
pose, and principally in this, that the invalid can 
keep up their action upon the bowels for a number 
of days, without suffering that debility of the 
constitution and loss of appetite which so con- 
stantly occur from a similar course of the ordinary 
purging drugs. 

In small and aperient doses, they often act most 
beneficially on the functions of the skin and kidneys; 
and especially, if the warm bath, and gentle 
exercise, be connected with their use. Adminis- 
tered in the same way, we sometimes witness very 
pleasant influences from these waters upon the 
mucous surfaces, as well as upon the serous, 
synovial, and fibrous membranes ; such results 
are sometimes witnessed in chronic catarrh, 
rheumatic affections of the joints, etc. 

My experience in the use of the saline waters 



MONTaOMERT WHITE SULPHUR, 341 

has been very favorable to their employment in 
djjspeiosia as well as in many other of the derange- 
ments of the digestive and assimilative functions ; 
in obstructions of the abdominal viscera generally, 
when unconnected with serious organic disease, 
they may be looked to as potent agents, and 
especially in cases attended with costiveness and 
depraved or vitiated biliary secretions. 

The Alleghany Springs may be very conve- 
niently reached from the East or South by railroad, 
by way of Lynchburg ; or from the Southwest, by 
way of Knoxville. 



MONTGOMERY WHITE SULPHUR. 

The Moxtgomery White Sulphur are springs of 
recent discovery and improvement. They are 
situated on the southern slope of the Alleghany 
Mountain, in the county of Montgomery, a few 
miles east of the town of Christiansburg, and at 
a short distance from the Virginia and Tennessee 
Railroad, from which to the springs a branch 
railroad has been constructed by the owners of the 
springs. 

Persons visiting this place leave the Virginia 
and Tennessee Railroad at the Spring Depots on 
the slope of the Alleghany, and take the company's 
railroad, on which, in a few minutes, they are 
conducted to their destination. 
29* 



342 MINERAL. WATERS OF VIRGINIA. 

The property is owned by a company of gentle- 
men, whose spirit and good taste in its rapid 
improvement is deserving of public commendation. 
The buildings for the accommodation of visitors, 
that have gone up here in the last four years, and 
with a rapidity almost unprecedented in this 
country, are spacious, elegant, and convenient, 
and since their construction have been well filled 
by visitors during the summer months. 

The Montgomery White' Sulphur is convenient 
of access by railroad, either from Lynchburg, a 
distance of about ninety miles, or from the South- 
west by way of the Virginia and Tennessee, and 
the Tennessee and Virginia Kailroads. The alti- 
tude of its position, and its health-inspiring 
climate, give to it potent recommendatio'ns for 
summer residence. 

As yet no analysis of the waters have been made 
public, and they have been used medicinally for so 
short a time, that no record has been made of their 
powers and adaptations sufficiently specific and 
distinct to serve as a guide to the invalid in their 
medicinal employment. As they are very favor- 
ably located for climate and general healthfulness, 
are easy of approach, and withal, are kept in a 
style of elegance and comfort, it is much to be 
hoped that the proprietors will add to their other 
commendable enterprises, that of furnishing the 
public with a correct analysis of the waters ; and 
that such observations of their general and peculiar 



MONTGOMERY WHITE SULPHUR. • 343 

effects upon the various diseases submitted to their 
use, will be made by scientific and competent 
persons, as will enable the public to give them a 
definite and distinct .tJiera2:)eutic position among 
our numerous mineral fountains. 

The waters of the Montgomery White being 
distinctly sulphurous in their character, and withal 
a bland and pleasant beverage, will be found to 
be well adapted to the cure of a large number of 
chronic affections that are known to be advan- 
tageously treated by sulphur waters generally. 
■ They are somewhat less cathartic, and also less 
stimulant than many Sulphur waters, and hence' 
may be used with more freedom and with greater 
safety than such waters, by delicate and excitable 
persons. This mild and slightly-operative char- 
acter of the water, while it constitutes it a safe 
beverage for the delicate invalid, very happily 
adapts it, as a mild alterative and depurative agent, 
to a large class of cases in which alterative effects 
are demanded for the cure of the case. 

The Montgomery White Sulphur occupies a 
central position among the Southwestern springs, 
having the Allegliany and Coiner s — the one ten, 
the other thirty miles to the east ; the ^' Yelloiv," 
and the Pulaski Alum — the first five, the latter 
thirty-five miles to the southwest ; while the 
Grayson SuljoJiur is about sixty-five miles in the 
same general direction, all convenient of access 
from this point by railroad and stage-coaches. 



344 MINERAL WATERS OF VIRGINIA. 



CHAPTER XXII. 

Tellow Springs — Pulaski Alum Springs— Grayson Sulphur 
Springs — Holsion Springs. 

YELLOW SPRINGS. 

These springs are pleasantly situated in an 
elevated and picturesque part of the County of 
Montgomery, and are surrounded by variegated 
and interesting scenery, and a productive and 
prosperous agricultural country. They^are about 
four miles from the Virginia and Tennessee Rail- 
road, with which they are connected at Christians- 
burg Depot, by a well-graded turnpike. They 
are five miles distant from the Montgomery White 
Sulphur Springs, thirteen from the Alleghany, 
thirty-five from the Salt Sulphur , and about sixty 
from the Greenbrier White Sulphur. 

The spring rises on the east side of the 
Alleghany, and not more than sixty feet below 
the summit level of tliat mountain ; its waters 
flow into the North fork of the Roanoke, which is 
about two miles distant. In consequence of the 
great altitude of the spring, the climate in which 
it is situated is very salubrious, the air being 
elastic, pure and invigorating during the hottest 
days pf summer. The water is clear, unusually 



YELLOW spRixas. 345 

transparent, and very cool ; its temperature being 
about 55° Fahrenheit. Its taste is slightly 
astringent, or styptic. The taste or smell of 
sulphur is slightly, if at all perceptible, and so 
little unpalatable is the water, that many persons, 
after using it for a short time, prefer it to the 
common limestone water of the neighborhood. 
In running over rough channels, as well as on the 
bottom, and sides of the spring inclosure, it 
deposits a brownish-yellow sediment ; a bluish 
sediment is also occasionally observed, supposed 
to be a prussiate of iron. After standing in an 
open vessel for some twelve or fifteen hours, it 
loses its styptic taste, becomes flat, and deposits a 
small quantity of its characteristic sediment. For 
cooking purposes, it is said to be preferred, if used 
as soon as it begins to boil, but if the boiling be 
continued, it renders whatever may be cooked in it 
bitter and disagreeable. 

The improvements at the Yellow Springs are 
very comfortable ; the buildings are new, pleas- 
antly arranged, and combine elegance with 
convenience. Many of the rooms, as well as the 
spring and the pleasure grounds, are delightfully 
shaded by magnificent forest trees. 

Under the name of ^^ Taylor's Springs," or 
^^ Yellow Springs," this watering place has been 
well known and much visited by invalids, for near 



346 MINERAL WATERS OF VIRGINIA. 

sixty years. As early as 1810 it attracted consid- 
erable attention, and had numerous visitors, 
especially from Eastern Virginia, and North 
Carolina. Among others, the venerable Bishop 
Madison_, formerly president of William and Mary 
College, was a frequent visitor, and in 1810, under 
the nom de plume of ^' Viator ," published a series 
of facts and observations, to which the public 
were indebted for their earliest scientific know- 
ledge of the water. 



In 1855 it was analyzed by Professor Gilham, 
who says : — 

One gallon of the water I find to contain — 

Carbonic acid 9-360 grains. 

Sulphuric acid 53-383 " 

Phosphoric acid 0-013 " 

Magnesia 7-723 " 

Lune 32-150 " 

Oxide of iron • 0-432 " 

Alumina 1-729 " 

Potash 0-119 " 

Soda 0-359 " 

Chlorine :... 0-092 " 

Organic extractive matter 3-733 " 



These substances existing together in the water, 
give rise to carbonates, sulphates, phosphates and 
chlorides, as follows : — 



YELLOW SPRIN-GS. 347 

Carbonate of lime 8*642 grains. 

Carbonate of magnesia 1"389 " 

Carbonate of protoxide of irpn 0-617 " 

Free carbonic acid 4-680 " 

Sulphate of lime 65-303 " 

Sulphate of magnesia 21-098 " 

Sulphate of alumina 3-176 " 

Sulphate of potash 0-107 " 

Sulphate of soda 0-750 " 

Protoxide of iron traces. 

Phosphate of lime 0015 " 

Phosphate of magnesia 0*011 " 

Chloride of potassium 0097 " 

Chloride of sodium '0-076 " 

Organic extractive matter 3-733 " 

The water, as its analysis indicates, is decidedly 
tonic, diuretic and mildly purgative. 

^ From seven to eight tumblers taken at inter- 
vaisj will usually create a mild cathartic effect ; as 
a diuretic it is active ; but its evident range of 
usefulness will be found in its valuable tonic 
properties. As a beverage it lies lightly and 
comfortably upon the stomach , when drunk even 
in large quantities. With many persons, espe- 
cially on commencing its use, it occasions slight 
excitation both of the physical and mental 
system, evidenced by a flushing of the face, a 
pleasant glow over the body, some increase of 
the frequency of the pulse, and of the animal 
spirits. 

^Its tendency to increase the appetite and promote 
digestion is very uniform. 



348 MINERAL WATERS OF VIRaiNIA. 

In Dyspepsia the water has sometimes produced 
highly heneiicial effects. 

In that class of female complaints^ demanding 
the use of tonics, it is a most efficacious remedj^, 
and has often proved very successful. 

In diseases of the Shin, especially in the various 
forms of Herpes, it is said to display highly 
curative powers. 

In old ulcers it has been found very beneficial ; 
obstinate cases of many years standing, have 
been successfully treated by the water, used both 
externally and internally, that had for years 
resisted the efforts of surgery. 

In Chronic Diarrhoea it is much relied upon by 
those who have had most experience in its use. 
Doctors Edie and Wade, intelligent physicians 
residing in the neighborhood of the springs, and 
who have often prescribed the water in this class 
of cases, commend it very highly. 

In general Debility, connected with nervous 
prostration, and unattended with serious visceral 
obstructions, it will always be found a valuable 
remedy. 

PULASKI ALUM SPRING 

This spring is situated in the northwest portion 
of the County of Pulaski, on Little "Walker's 
Creek, about ten miles from the town of Newborn, 
and seven in a direct line from the Yiro'inia and 



PULASKI ALUM SPRIXG. 349 

Tennessee Eailroacl. It is owned by Mr. Hunter, 
who now furnishes accommodations for about one 
hundred visitors, and who is actively engaged in 
so enlarging his improvements, as to make them 
commensurate with the public demands. 

This water has not been analyzed, but it very 
much resembles, both in its sensible qualities and 
its medicinal operations, the water of the Eock- 
bridge Alum. It already enjoys a high reputation 
in its neighborhood, as a remedy for scrofula, 
cutaneous diseases, and other affections for which 
the alum w^aters of Rockbridge have become 
celebrated. 

The fine salubrious climate in which the spring 
is found, and the convenience with which it can 
be approached by the railroad, together with the 
value of its waters as a medicinal agent, make it a 
place of interest and importance to the spring- 
going public. 

Dr. Withers, of Newborn, in a communication 
to the author, thus speaks of his professional 
experience with these waters • ^^ I have no hesi- 
tancy in according to them decided curative efi'ects 
in some diseases, usually very obstinate ; among 
the number I would mention diseases of the skin 
resulting from an aplastic condition of the blood, 
or from special poisons in the system, such as 
Syphilitic Biqna 'et id omne genus.' They have a 
decided tendency to reproduce suppressed cata- 
menia^ sometimes relieving cases that have 
80 



50 MINERAL WATERS 05^ VIRGINIA. 

obstinately resisted tlie usual medical treatment." 
Dr. W. also considers them valuable in certain 
liver affections, and in derangements of- the 
glandular system generally. 

GRAYSON SULPHUR SPRINGS. 

The Grayson Sulphur Springs, are located 
immediately on the west side of the Blue Eidge, 
in the County of Carroll, about twenty miles south 
of Wytheville. They rise on the banks of New 
Eiver, in the midst of scenery remarkable for its 
wildness and grandeur ^ — in a region as salubrious 
and invigorating as any in our country. The 
neighboring streams abound in fish, and the 
forests in game of every variety found in our 
mountains. 

Long before these springs were improved in 
reference to public accommodations, their medici- 
nal virtues were appreciated by many intelligent 
gentlemen of Wythe County, v/ho were in the 
habit of making annual visits to the region in 
which they are situated, with the compound object 
of hunting, fishing, and using the Sulphur waters. 
Their regular encampment, (for the place was not 
then dignified even with a cabin,) was near the 
source of the healing water, w^here^ during the 
idle weeks of fall, they made themselves happy 
and healthy, by chasing the wild buck, angling 
the Blue Cat, and quaffing sulphur waters. 



GRAYSOX SULPHUR SPRINGS. 351 

The property is owned by an association of gen- 
tleiixen living mainly in Wythe County, and is 
improved pleasantly but not extensively ; affording 
accommodations for from one hundred and fifty to 
two hundred persons. 

The waters of the Grayson have made consider- 
able progress in popular favor in the last few years, 
and quite a number of people assemble there 
during the watering season. 

The waters are decidedly sulphurous, and have 
been found useful in dyspeptic depravities, and 
the various clironic derangements of tbe chylo- 
poetic viscera. Their earliest reputation, which 
has been well maintained, was in tbe cure of 
rheumatism. For all chronic diseases of the skin, 
especially for salt rheum, herpes and tetters they 
will be found efficacious ; for chronic forms of 
liver disease they are well adapted : — and I am 
inforrned by highly respectable medical assurances, 
that they have displayed the happiest effects in 
numerous cases of amenorrhoea, and in chlorotic 
conditions of the female system. 

There is, quite near the Sulphur Spring, a good 
chalybeate, which may be used to advantage in 
many cases ; — and in nervous aff'ections, and female 
diseases, it will be beneficial to drink it moderately, 
in connection with the Sulphur water. 

The Grayson waters have been analyzed by Pro- 
fessor Kogers, He shows that in a given quantity 
of their solid contents, there are found — 



352 ailNERAL WATERS OF VIRGINIA. 

Soda 4 grains. 

Carbonate magnesia 3 

Carbonate lime 8 

Sulpbate lime 2 

Sulphate magnesia. 3 

Chloride sodium. 2 

Chloride calcium 3 

Chloride magnesium If 

Sulphate soda 4^ 

Sulphuretted hydrogen and carbonic acid abound 
in the water. 

Dr. K. Crocketj of Wythevilloj in a lettter to the 
author, speaks favorably, from his own experience, 
of the use of these waters in diseases of the abdo- 
minal viscera generally, but especially, in that 
form of dyspepsia depending upon primary gastric 
irritation, in amenorrhoea and cJilorosis, in irrita- 
tions of the bladder, and in the milder forms of 
skin diseases. 

A turnpike-road connects these springs with 
the railroad at Wytheville. 

HOLSTON SPRINGS. 

The Holston Springs are in the County of Scott, 
in the extreme southwestern angle of the State, 
near the Tennessee line, forty miles from Abing- 
ton, '^YQ north of Kingsport, and thirty miles east 
of Kogersville, Tennessee. They are on the bank 
of the North fork of the Holston Eiver, in a wild 
and romantic region of country, affording choice 



HOLSTON SPRINGS. • 353 

facilities to the sportsman in the recreation of 
hunting or fishing. 

One of these springs comes within the thermal 
range, being 68*5° Fah.j or about fifteen degrees 
higher than the common springs of the surround- 
ing country. Of the saline contents of the water, 
the most abundant are sulphates of lime and 
magnesia, and the carbonate of lime, chloride of 
sodium, muriate of alumina, sulphate of soda, 
phosphate and sulphate of alumina, are found in 
smaller proportions. It is represented to be 
actively diuretic, and under favorable circum- 
stances, determining to the skin by mild dia- 
phoresis ; with many it is mildly purgative. Drs. 
Clapp, Trigg and Preston, respectable pbysicians 
of Abington, speak favorably of its use in diseases 
which have their origin in the disordered state of 
the digestive organs ; in rheumatism, mercurial 
diseases, and scrofula, as well as in diseases of the 
skin, affections of the urinary organs, and in 
some of the diseases of females. 

With proper cautions, the bath here will be 
found beneficial in many cases in which tepid 
baths are usually employed. 

The water of the Hols ton Springs was analyzed 
in 1842, by Professor Hayden, who reports that 
he found one wine gallon of the water to contain 
41*14: grains of saline matter, consisting of — 

30* 



354 MINERAL WATERS OE VlR(JlNIA. 

Cliloride of sodium and muriate of ammonia 1"51 grains. 

Sulphate of soda a trace. 

Sulphate of magnesia 12'75 " 

Phosphate and sulphate of alumina a trace. 

Carbonate of lime 6-42 " 

- Sulphate of lune 20-46 

41-14 " 



CHAPTER XXIII. 

Fauquier White Sulphur Springs — Buffalo Spirings — Huguenot 
Springs — New London Alum Springs. 

FAUQUIER WHITE SULPHUR. 

The Fauquier White Sulpliur Springs are situa- 
ted in the County of Fauquier, fifty-six miles 
from Washington, and ahout forty from Freder- 
icksburg. 

The medical quality of the sulphur springs at 
this place were known and highly appreciated 
long before they were opened to the public. While 
the virtues of the waters remained in comparative 
obscurity, the resort of those living in the neigh- 
borhood caused such an interruption to the farming 
operations of the proprietor, as induced him, 
after every other endeavor to keep out crowds of 
visitors had failed, to Jill up the spring. 



FAUQUIEE WHITE SULPHUR. • 355 

But so clearly had its virtues been estaWished 
by the comparatively partial trial of its virtues^ 
that the estate was purchased by another party, 
with the view of making it a place of public resort. 

According to analysis, which, however, is re- 
garded as very imperfect, the water is impregnated 
with sulphate of magnesia, pliospliate of soda, and 
sulphuretted hydrogen. Its temperature is 56° 
Fahrenheit, 10^° Kaumer. It has a strong 
sulphuric smell, and the taste being not unlike 
the odor arising from the yolk of a hard-boiled egg^ 
is not, perhaps, at first very agreeable to the palate 
of a gourmand. It operates purgatively and diu- 
retically ; the cuticular pores being opened and 
perspiration^ especially if the weather be warm, 
flows easily and copiously. 

The waters of Fauquier are not as strong as the 
sulphur waters of Greenbrier and Monroe, and 
consequently will not act so soon or so powerfully 
on the system as the latter. But they have been 
in deservedly high repute as an alterative, and 
the very gradual way in which they affect the 
system, gives them a preference to stronger waters 
in some cases. 

They are thought to be valuable, particularly 
in certain dyspeptic depravities, and in dropsical 
affections. 

The Hon. B. Watkins Leigh, late United States 
Senator from Virginia, was cured of a dropsy by 
the use of these waters in 1838, after having 



356 MINERAL WATERS OF VIRGINIA . 

undergone the operation of ]paracentesis for the 
disease. 

This property was beautifully and extensively 
improved before the war, and had for many years 
been a place of large and fashionable resort. 

During the war, pretty much all the buildings 
were burned, but doubtless arrangements will ere 
long be made by which this heretofore delightful 
place will be pat in a condition to meet the wants 
of the spring-going public. 



BUFFALO SPRINGS. 

The Buffalo Springs are situated in the County 
of Mecklenburg, a few miles south of Dan Kiver, 
and seven west of the town of Clarksville. 

They were knoWn as mineral waters probably 
as early as the beginning of the present century, 
and were resorted to by tlie people of the neigh- 
borhood as a remedy in cutaneous diseases, chronic 
ulcers, etc., etc. Some forty or fifty years ago, 
several of the neighboring planters, on the Dan 
and Staunton Rivers, erected cabins near the 
springs, and occupied them during the summer 
months. They did not, however, become a place 
for the resort of invalids until about the year 
1835.* 

These springs are conveniently approached from 

*Dr, S. H. Harris's Pamphlet, published in 1850. 



BUFFALO SPRINGS. 357 

different directions. Their distance from Kich- 
mond is one hundred and forty-four miles^ and 
from Petersburg one hundred and twenty-four, 
all the way by railroad, with the exception of 
seven miles staging. 

The analysis of this water shows it to be a sul- 
phated chalybeate. Its temperature, as it flows 
from the earth, is 60° Fah. Its specific gravity 
is 1-058. 

The solid contents obtained by evaporating one 
wine gallon of the w^ater, is found to consist of — 

Sulphate of magnesia 8 grains. 

Sulphate of lime 35 " 

Sulphate of protoxide of iron 2-6 " 

Chloride of sodiiun atrace. 

Chloride of magnesium atrace. 

Sulphate of soda 1"3 " 

Sulphuretted hydrogen gas 0-54080 " 

Total of solid and gaseous contents.... 15-94080 *' 

Dr. Harris, whose eminence in his profession, 
and long familiarity with the use of the Buffalo 
waters, entitle his opinions on this subject to the 
utmost respect, thus speaks of their therapeutic 
effects on the system : 

^^The first effects produced by drinking the 
water is a flushed face, a quickened pulse, and 
some giddiness of the head. These symptoms 
soon pass off, however, and are followed by an 
increase of appetite, a healthful glow on the surface, 



358 MINERAL WATERS OF VIRGINIA. 

with more or less perspiration, and a pleasing con- 
sciousness of new life and vigor infused into every 
organ of the body. Yery active, and sometimes 
incipient diuresis •supervenes, and continues as 
long as the water is used. Occasionally, some 
slight purging takes place for the first day or two, 
but unless the mucous membrane of the bowels 
was previously inflamed, or ver}^ irritable, the 
protracted use of the water is attended with con- 
stipation. 

"The water is decidedly stimulant, and, of 
course, contra-indicated in all diseases of an acute 
inflammatory character ; as, likewise, in all cases of 
hgemorrhage of the lungs, or acute diseases of the 
bronchial tubes. As a mere tonic, however, it is 
not wholly inadmissibie in chronic affections of the 
chest ; but should never be resorted to without 
satisfactory evidence of the absence of tuberculous 
diseases of that cavity. Its stimulating effects, 
added to the pre-existing excitement in this limited 
class of diseases, constitutes ' the head and front 
of its ofl'ending,' " 

"A practice,'' continues Dr. H., " of more than 
twenty years in the immediate neighborhood of 
this spring, has afforded opportunities of testing 
the ef&cacy of the water in a great variety of 
cases. As a tonic, diuretic, sudorific and emmena- 
gogue, it has been prescribed and freely used in 
every conceivable species of malady, in which 
medicines belonging to these several classes were 



BUFI'ALO SPRINGS. 359 

supposed to be indicated. And, althougli not 
always with the complete success desired, yet 
rarely ever without amendment, or some amelio- 
l*ation in the general health of the patietit, except 
in the cases already specified. 

^^ The principal morbid states to which it seems 
to be well adapted, are dropsical affections, visceral 
obstructions, protracted intermittent and remittent 
fevers, chronic diseases of the skin, dyspepsia, 
convalescence from fevers of every grade and type, 
female complaints, and almost every disease of the 
pelvic organs in both sexes." 

The happy blending of tonic and alterative 
230wers in these waters, constitute them a valuable 
remedy in a comprehensive class of cases in which 
these two important influences are demanded for 
the restoration of health. 

In the sallow or jaundiced condition of the skin, 
common to denizens of warm miasmatic districts, 
and always connected with hepatic derangements 
of some sort, these waters will be used with excel- 
lent success. In the milder obstructions of the 
liver, spleen and kidneys, as well as in obstructions 
in the lesser glands of the system, and in j)aucity 
or poverty of the blood, their employment will be 
valuable. We should look also for highly bene- 
ficial results from the judicious use of the waters 
in chronic irritation of the mucous coat of the 
bowels, bladder or urethra, as well as in that 
wretched form of disease technically known as 



360 MINERAL WATERS OF VIRGINIA . 

spermatorrlima , a legitimate and not unfrequent 
result of youthful improprieties. 

In certain forms of female affections, particularly 
in amenorrlioea, dismenorrlioea, chlorosis or leucor- 
rhoea, where no condition of the general system 
contra-indicates their use, they will, doubtless, 
be eminently serviceable. 

In directing as to the manner of using the 
waters, Dr. Harris very properly condemns the 
over-doses of it but too frequently indulged in. 
He thinks, that three or four glasses before break- 
fast, and the same number before dinner, with an 
occasional glass in the evening, are altogether 
sufficient, and remarks that a larger quantity than 
this produces an over-distension of the stomach, 
and sometimes an almost incessant micturition. 
In chronic diarrhoea, it will only be borne in very 
small and oft-repeated doses, and the same remark 
will be found true in all cases attended with irrita- 
bility of the alimentary canal. 



HUGUENOT SPRINGS. 

This watering place is in Powhatan County, 
about seventeen miles above Richmond. It is 
situated near the centre of a tract of land granted 
by the British Crown to a body of Protestant 
refugees driven from Prance by the repeal of the 
edict of Nantes, in 1685. 



NEW LONDON ALUM SPRINGS. 361 

There are two springs here, one mildly sul- 
phurous, the other cJialyheate. The first was 
analyzed hy Professor Rogers, who ascertained 
that it contained the ingredients usually found in 
the sulphur waters of the country, but in small 
proportions. The other spring was analyzed by 
Professor Maupin, who pronounced it a mild and 
pure cJialyheate. 

In addition to these medicated springs, there is a 
luell from which is obtained a water strongly 
tinctured both with sulphur and iron. This is 
used, not only for drinking, but for bathing, its 
medicinal properties when thus employed being 
considered valuable. 

The situation of the Huguenot Springs is cheer- 
ful, and more than ordinarily striking. Its 
improvements are comfortable, and, altogether, it 
affords a very agreeable and healthful summer 
retreat for the liahitues of the neighboring cities of 
Eichmond and Petersburg, — and for the society- 
seeking part of the community of the surrounding 
country. 

NEW LONDON ALUIVI SPRING. 

For a number of years it has been known that 
alum is a constituent part of a rock that is found 
in large masses near the town of New London, in 
the County of Campbell, ten miles southwest of 
Lynchburg. An excavation made several years 
ago into the ground, penetrating this rock, but 
81 



362 MINERAL WATERS OF VIRGINIA. 

with no view of obtaining alum water, the virtues 
of which were not then appreciated, has, from the 
percolation of the water through the layers of 
rock, aiforded an alum of sufficient purity to be 
used by the good housewives of the vicinity for 
'' setting their dyes." 

The medical reputation acquired within the last 
few years by the alum waters of Eockbridge, 
induced the proprietor of this rock, P. Echols, 
Esq., to sink a shaft or well into it, with the hope 
of obtaining alum water in sufficient quantity to 
be used for medicinal purposes. His enterprise 
has been crowned with entire success. On pene- 
trating the rock to the depth of sixteen feet, he 
came to several seaps or percolations of water, 
furnishing a sufficient amount to induce him to 
suspend further operations and to cut an entrance 
into the basin, or spring, after the manner of 
ancient wells, and of sufficient size to admit 
of easy ingress and egress to and from the 
fountain. 

This water has been much used since its dis- 
covery, for various diseases, and as popular fame 
alleges, and as several sensible and judicious 
persons in the neighborhood have assured me, 
with very great advantage. 

Tliree or four glasses a day, will operate gently 
upon the hotvels of some persons ; it very decidedly 
promotes the secretion of the Iddneys ; but its 
leading operation is that of a generous tonic and 



NEW LONDON ALUM SPRINGS. 363 

astringent to the animal fibre, increasing the 
appetite and strengthening the general system. 

It is a water that is attracting public attention, 
and now occupies a favorable position among 
waters of its class. 

It has been analyzed by Professor Gilham with 
the following results : — 

*^A gallon of water furnished the following 
mineral constituents : — 

Sulphuric acid 59*008 grains. 

Magnesia 4*320 " 

Protoxide of iron 11*112 " 

Alumina 4*072 " 

Lime 7*768 " 

Potassa 5*064 " 

If we suppose, which is the most probable sup- 
position, that the sulphuric acid forms simple 
combinations with the above bases, in the propor- 
tions of one atom, or equivalent, of acid, to one 
atom, or equivalent, of base, we shall have the 
various salts of the acid in the following propor- 
tions : — 

Sulphate of magnesia 12*664 grains to the gal. 

" prot. of iron 23*456 " 

" alumina . 7*240 " 

lime 18*672 

" potassa... 10*160 " 

And, in addition, we have of free or uncombined sulphuric 
acid, 19*976 grains. 



364 MINERAL WATERS OF VIRGINIA. 

Tliis analysis of Professor Gilliam will give con- 
fidence as to the component parts of this water, 
while it indicates, as far as can be done by 
chemistry, its appropriate medicinal adaptations. 

Suggesting now, as heretofore, when treating of 
the analysis of other waters in connection with 
their medicinal use, the uncertainty of any 
analysis as a basis for the administration of 
mineral waters, I remark, that we have a new and 
valuable light in this particular case, not always 
accessible to new and untried waters. Between 
the analysis of this water, and the alum waters of 
Bath and Kockbridge, whose reputation and 
.adaptations are now pretty well established, 
there is a similarity in several respects, so striking 
as to induce the belief that they are suited to the 
same general range of disease. 

The intelligent physician, at all acquainted 
with the peculiar action of the alum waters, and 
looking to the leading indications afforded by the 
analysis of this, will not fail to perceive that it is 
pointed out as a valuable remedy in a large circle 
of cases that require an alterative tonic treatment. 
It will be found valuable in the various forms of 
Salt Bheum, as such waters invariably are ; while 
its good effects in Chlorosis^ and other female 
affections, unattended with febrile action, may 
be looked to, we would think, with decided confi- 
dence. 

In anceinic, and other conditions of the system 



SPRINGS OF KENTUCKY. 365 

demanding the use of tonic remedies, this water 
may be used with excellent effect. In cutaneous 
and ulcerative affections, in primary nervous 
diseases, in profluvia, and passive haemorrhages, 
it will be found well adapted. 



CHAPTER XXIY. 
SPRINGS OF KENTUCKY. 

Harrodsburg — Rochester — Olympia n — Blue Lick — EstiU. 

HARRODSBURa SpRiXGS.* — Thcsc springs are situ- 
ated near the source of Salt Eiver, and in the 
immediate suburbs of the town of Harrodsburg. 
They have been extensively and handsomely 
improved, and in the language of Dr. Drake, will 
in this respect, ^^ compare advantageously with 
any to be found in America or Europe." 

Dr. Raymond's analysis shows, that one pint of 
the water of the Grenville Spring, contains — 

* To Dr. Drake, wlio was one of the brightest philosophical 
lights of the profession in America, we are principally indebted 
for our knowledge of the Springs of Kentucky. 
31* 



366 SPRINGS OF KENTUCKY. 

Carbonate of magnesia 2*87 grains. 

Bi-carbonate of lime 0'86 " 

Sulphate of magnesia (crystallized) 16*16 " 

Sulphate of lime (crystallized) 11-06 " 

Chloride of sodium a trace 

30-95 " 

One pint of the Saloon or Chalybeate Spring, 
contains — 

Bi-carbonate of magnesia 0-43 grains. 

Bi-carbonate of lime 4.31 " 

Bi-carbonate of iron 0*50 " 

Sulphate of magnesia (crystallized) 37-92 " 

Sulphate of lime (crystallized) 10-24 " 

Chloride of sodium 1-24 " 

44-60 " 

Dr. Kaymond could not detect either free car- 
bonic acid or sulphuretted hydrogen gas. 

The water of the Grenville Spring is the better 
antacid — that of Saloon, the better tonic. Indeed, 
small as the quantity of iron is, it sometimes 
produces an uncomfortable feeling in the head, 
which is relieved by drinking at the other fountain. 
In reference to the excretions, the water from both 
acts upon the bowels, kidneys, and skin. Beyond 
these sensible effects, it pervades the whole con- 
stitution, and many classes of invalids very soon 
feel a renovation of appetite, strength, and cheer- 
fulness, although its primary effects seem to be 
sedative, not stimulant. 



ROCHESTER SPRING. 367 

Dr. Drake remarksj that ^^ these waters are 
very beneficial in chronic inflammations and 
obstructions of th^ abdominal viscera ; in such 
cases of dyspepsia as are attended with subacute 
gastritis ; and in almost every kind of hepatic 
disorder^ except when the liver is indurated, and 
consequently, incurable. They are almost equally 
beneficial in chronic inflammations of many other 
parts of the system — especially of the serous and 
fibrous membranes. In tonic dropsies, in rheu- 
matism, and in various afl'ections of the periosteum 
from febrile metastasis, from syphilis, and from 
mercury, they have often efl'ected a cure, when 
other means had failed." He also speaks very 
favorably of their employment in urinary dis- 
orders, and chronic diseases of the skin. He 
enjoins caution in their use in pulmonary com- 
plaints, and considers them hurtful in vomica, 
tubercular suppurations, and hepatization of the 
pulmonary tissue. 

KocHESTER Spring, according to Dr. Drake, is 
a feeble but constant stream, that bursts out 
about sixty feet below the summit of a ridge of 
coarse-grained, shell " limestone. It so nearly 
resembles the waters just described, that a 
detailed account of its waters would be superfluous. 
It is one mile from Perryville and twelve from 
Harrodsburg. 



368 SPRINGS OF KENTUCKY. 

The Olympian Springs constitute one of tlie 
oldest and most noted watering places in Ken- 
tucky. They are situated in -Bath County, about 
fifty miles east of Lexington, on the waters of 
Licking Kiver, which unites with the Ohio, oppo- 
site Cincinnati. 

There are several springs and wells, which 
present such differences in their composition, that 
of all the watering places of the West, this 'has 
been supposed to afford the greatest variety ; but 
Dr. Drake remarks: '^ I could not myself detect 
more than three kinds — a Salt and Sulphur, a 
White Sulj)hicr, and a Chalybeate. 

^^ The Salt and Sulphur Well contains sulphu- 
retted hydrogen, muriate of soda, carbonate of 
soda, and perhaps a little muriate of lime. 

^^The White Sulphur Spring is situated half a 
mile from the well. This spring is said to have 
made its first appearance during the earthquakes 
of 1811. Its temperature is 59°. Its composition 
is essentially the same with that of the well just 
described, but the ingredients of the two vary in 
their proportions. The quantity of sulphur is 
greater in the spring than in the well ; on the 
other hand, the spring has but a weak impregna- 
tion of muriate of soda compared with the well. 
The proportion of carbonate of soda is nearly the 
same in both. 



BLCFE LICK SPRINGS. 369 

^^The Chalybeate Springs are two in numberj 
and are situated about forty yards apart, and half 
a mile from the Salt and Sulphur Well. They are 
simple carbonated iron waters/' 

The Salt and Sulphur waters, Dr. Drake informs 
us, are principally drunk ; of these, from one to 
eight tumblers are taken in the morning. Its 
diuretic effects are prompt, its action upon the 
bowels very inconsiderable. 

Blue Lick Springs. — At this place. Dr. Drake 
tells us, there are several springs, all essentially 
of one kind — the Sulphurous Saline. They are 
situated on the bank of Licking Kiver, twenty- 
four miles from the Ohio, and on the main road 
that leads from Maysville to Lexington. From 
the early settlement of the State until within 
the last eighteen years, salt was manufactured 
at this place. 

The analysis of the Blue Lick Waters by 
Professor Peter* shows that its gaseous contents 
consist of sulph. hydrogen and carbonic acid ; 
and its solid contents, of the carbonates of lime 
and magnesia, the chlorides of potassium, sodium 
and magnesia, the sulphate of lime, and potash, 
bromide of magnesium, iodide of magnesium, 
silicic acid, with a small amount of alumina, 
phosphate of lime, and oxide of iron. 

* Mineral and Thermal Springs, by Dr. John Bell. 



370 SPRINGS OF KENTUCKY. 

The solid contents of the Blue Lick water are to 
those of the White Sulphur^ as rather more than 
nine to two. In the former are sixty-four grains 
of chloride of sodium, or common salt, to the 
pint ; in the latter, hut a small fraction. The 
first contains ahout three and a half grains of 
sulphate of lime, the second ahout ten grains. 
The White Sulphur holds in solution, however, 
sulphates of magnesia and soda, hoth of which 
are wanting in the Blue Lick ; while in its turn 
the latter has chloride of potassium, and sulphate 
of potash and hromide of magnesium, which are 
not in the former. The quantity of sulph. hydro- 
gen in the Blue Lick is double that in the White 
Sulphur. Iodide of magnesium is found in both. 

The medical virtues of the Blue Lick water are 
those of a saline sulphur, and are analogous to, 
but more active than, the Olympian Spring 
water. It acts freely as a diuretic ; but only 
occasionally as a purgative. It may be used with 
advantage in nearly all the chronic diseases in 
which the sulphur waters already described have 
been recommended. The water employed as a 
bath, can be very properly connected with its 
internal use. 

Estill Springs, in Estill County, are sulphurous 
waters. There are two springs here, called 
White and Bed Sulphur. 

The White Sulphur contains 0*09 per cent, of 



MINERAL SPRINGS OF OHIO. 371 

solid contents — the Eed, 0'04 per cent., consisting 
in both cases of carbonates of soda, lime and 
magnesia ; sulphates of lime, magnesia and soda ; 
chlorides of sodium, calcium and magnesium, 
with hydro-sulphate of soda, and a trace of 
carbonate of iron. 



CHAPTER XXY. 

MINERAL SPRINGS OF OHIO. 

Ohio White Sulphur, its History, Improvements, &c — Analyses — 
Medicinal Adaptations, &c., &c — Saline Chalybeate Spring — 
Telloio Spnng — Westport Spring. 

OHIO WHITE SULPHUR. 

Ohio White Sulphur. — ISTear the geographical 
centre of Ohio, in the County of Delaware, and 
immediately on the West bank of the Scioto, sur- 
rounded by a country broken, hilly, and beauti- 
fully picturesque, arises the Ohio White Sulphur, 
The Scioto is here a rippling, rapid stream, hastily 
flowing and fretting over beds of boulder rocks, 
and skirted for many miles above and below the 
spring, by slopes or banks of considerable eleva- 



372 MINERAL SPRINGS OF OHIO. 

tion, wliicli gently spread out into undulatory 
table-lands, charmingly interspersed with valley 
and hillj and blessed with an atmosphere free 
from malarious influences at every period of the 
year, and as salubrious as is found in our high 
mountain ranges. 

Under the name oi Hart' s Spring , this place has 
been known for its mineral waters for more than 
twenty years. The circumstance that led to its 
improvement as a spring property by Mr. Hart, its 
former proprietor, is worthy of note. He had 
visited the White Sulphur Springs in Virginia, 
for the relief of a complicated stomach and liver 
complaint; returning to Ohio cured of his disease, 
his attention was called to this Artesian sulphur 
fountain, and upon examination, he found its 
waters so strikingly to resemble those of the 
Virginia Spring, as to induce him to purchase 
and improve it in view of its medicinal value. 

The property was afterwards purchased by Mr. 
A. Wilson, of Cincinnati, whose energy, good 
taste, and ample means, were actively exercised in 
enlarging its accommodations, and still further 
beautifying the place, already, by the bounties of 
nature, surprisingly beautiful. 

The buildings for visitors are pleasantly situated 
on a beautifully undulating plateau, at an eleva- 
tion of perhaps one hundred and twe~nty feet 
above the level of the river, and about eight 
hundred feet distant from it. With those now in 



OHIO WHITE SULPHUR. 373 

progress to completion, the accommodation will 
be ample and comfortable for six hundred persons. 
The drawing of the grounds, including the various 
improvements on the spring lawn, that accom- 
panies this article, renders a particular descrip- 
tion of them unnecessary. 

The good taste and liberality of the proprietor 
of this property seem to be untiring in suggesting 
and carrying forward new means of comfort and 
amusement for his visitors, as well as for their 
more beneficial use of the waters. To these ends, 
a charming wood lawn of a hundred acres, ad- 
joining the spring lawn, has been laid off in walks 
and cal-riage-drives, and extensive hathing-Jiouses 
have been erected, furnishing not only warm and 
hot tub-baths, but also with arrangements for 
employing douche and sweat baths : these cannot 
fail, from the high mineral impregnation of the 
water, to prove eminently valuable in a great 
variety of cases. 

The construction of douche and siueating baths of 
sulphur water, to be employed under proper cir- 
cumstances^ in connection with the internal use 
of the water, is a matter of the utmost importance 
to the successful treatment of numerous cases 
that resort to mineral springs. 

The water for bathing is here heated by steam ^ 

in the tub in which it is used. This is a vast 

improvement over the old method of heating 

mineral waters for bathing. Under the old plan 

33 



374 MINERAL SPRINGS OE OHIO. 

of heating in a Loiler, and thence carrjnng the 
water to the bathing-tub, much of its valuable 
saline matter was precipitated and lost. By this 
improved method of applying steam to the water 
in the tub, the beat is never so great in raising 
the water to the bathing point, as to cause any 
important precipitation of its salts ; hence they 
are left in their natural suspension in the water, 
to exert their specific effect upon the bather. Not 
only so, but, by this improved method, hot steam 
may be let into the tub, from time to time, as the 
water cools, so as to keep it essentially of the 
same temperature during the entire process of 
bathing ; a consideration often of no small im- 
portance. This method of heating mineral waters 
in the tub in which they are used, in connection 
with douche and sweating baths, brings warm and 
hot bathing at this place, in fair competition with 
bathing at naturally Warm and Hot Springs, and 
will be productive of the same good effects that 
are experienced from bathing in such springs. 

The Ohio White Sulphur fountain is a curiosity 
in hydraulics. Its waters arise in a boring made 
through solid rock that underlies the bed of the 
river, and are thrown up hj subterranean power 
one hundred and sixty feet to the surface of the 
earth, where a pipe is attached to the mouth of 
the boring, or well, along which, by means of the 
same subterranean power, they are propelled a 
distance of near three hundred feet, and to an 



OHIO WHITE SULPHUR. 375 

elevation of some sixty feet above the level of the 
river. Here they flow into a beautiful marble 
reservoir, the fountain from which the water is 
received for drinking. From the base of this 
reservoir the water is conducted under ground to 
the bath-rooms, and from thence to form a beauti- 
ful Jet d'eaio in its exit to the river, into which it 
falls when released from its utilitarian purposes. 

A hydrodynamic problem here very naturally 
arises in the inquisitive mind. By what power is 
this volume of water made to rise more than two 
hundred feet perpendicularly above its source in 
the bowels of the earth? 

Writers on i^hysics assert that there are but 
two known forces that account for such phenomena; 
Jirst, a gaseous force, and it is alleged that when 
water is propelled by such a force, it always flows 
more or less ^^er saltum, and not in a constant 
regular stream ; second, the well-known force, or 
principle, by which water finds its own level. 
Now this water does not come up per saltum in 
any degree, but in a continuous, bold, dashing 
current. When we look around in search of a 
probable elevation from which it might come, we 
find it not in the State of Ohio, nor in many hun- 
dreds of miles in any direction, except in the great 
Apalachian chain of Virginia or Pennsylvania, 
and the nearest of these, perhaps two hundred 
miles distant. Do these sulphur waters, as such, 
come from the great Alleghany supplies that are 



376 MINERAL SPRINGS OF OHIO. 

known to exist, and are so frequently found issu- 
ing from the base of that range of mountains in 
Virginia ? or, do they receive their mineral im- 
pregnations near the place where they arise, and 
is there some force not yet understood by which 
water may be propelled to great heights above its 
natural source ? 

Interesting as this question may be, I must 
leave its ultimate decision to those more deeply 
versed in the arcana of nature. 

This fountain, as valuable as a medicinal agent 
as it is curious in physics, was first discovered 
about thirty -four years ago. 

A gentleman, by the name of Bachus, was 
boring at this place for salt water, and after 
penetrating the solid rock to the depth of one 
hundred and sixty feet, his auger suddenly sunk 
two feet, and the sulphur water gushed out. Not 
then appreciating the value of this discovery, he 
continued his boring, still through solid rock, to 
the farther depth of three hundred and thirty 
feet, when he reached salt water, but not of suffi- 
cient strength to justify its evaporation into salt 
as a business. Subsequently the lower boring 
was plugged, and the sulphur water alone per- 
mitted to flow up. 

The hole, along which the water rises, is seven 
and a half inches in circumference, up which it 
rushes with tremendous force, at the rate of one 
hundred and twenty gallons a minute, or seven 
thousand two hundred gallons per hour. 



OHIO WHITE SULPHUR. S11 

To convey some idea of the volume of this sub- 
terranean current of sulphur water, and the 
rapidity with which it is forced along its channel, 
we are told that an attempt was made to introduce 
a copper tube from the surface to the bottom of 
the well, and that very soon, that portion of the 
tube that entered the current, became bent and 
flattened by its force. 

Although these springs have but for a few years 
attracted much of public attention, enough is 
satisfactorily known of them to enable us to 
welcome them to a prominent position among the 
watering places of the country. 

Their geographical position being central in the 
great and flourishing State in which they are 
situated, and essentially so as between the popula- 
tion of the Southwest and the watering places of 
the Middle and Northern States ; the ready 
facility with which they are approached by rail- 
road from every direction ; and, above all, the 
medicinal value of their waters, point them out as 
a place of very large valetudinary and fashionable 
resort by the people of America. So fortunately 
are they located in reference to accessibilit}^, that 
visitors from North, South, East or West, can 
approach within four miles of them on unbroken 
chains of railroad. 

The elevated and healthful country in which 
they are situated, with the established fact of its 
entire freedom from malarious influences at all 
33* 



378 MINERAL SPRINGS OF OHIO. 

seasons of the year, give to persons who are 
seeking a healthful climate, for a summer retreat, 
a reliable assurance of finding such at this place. 
The waters of this sulphur fountain have heen 
anal^^zed by Professor E. S. Wayne, of Cincinnati, 
who shows that their gaseous contents consist of — 

Sulphuretted hydrogen, Carbonic acid. 

Their solid contents of — 

Sulphate of lime, Carbonate of lime, 

Sulphate of magnesia. Oxide of iron, 

Chloride of calcium, Sulphuret of calcium. 

Chloride of sodium, Iodine, 

Chloride of magnesium. Organic matter. 

The temperature of this spring, winter and 
summer, is 52° Fah. 

This analysis shows that the water holds in 
solution many of the best ingredients found in the 
most celebrated waters of Europe and America, 
and indicates its adaptation to a large circle of 
chronic diseases to which humanity is subject. 

While this water strongly resembles the Vir- 
ginia White Sulphur in several respects, it is still 
more like the waters of Avon and Sharon Springs 
in New York^ than any other with which I am 
familiar. The two latter waters differ somewhat 
from each other, and so will this be found to differ 
from both ; nevertheless the likeness is not inapt 
between them in many essential particulars. 



OHIO WHITE SULPHUR. 379 

The author visited and spent some time at these 
springs in the fall of 1857, and again in 1858, 
with the view of examining the waters^ and 
ascertaining, by scientific research and practical 
observation, their peculiar characteristics and 
medical adaptations. The field of observation 
while at the springs, was too limited to mature 
conclusions as definite and positive in reference to 
the specific character of the waters as was desira- 
ble ; but in all cases in which I witnessed their 
use, the effects were highly satisfactory ; and 
many intelligent persons, among them medical 
men of high reputation, who had used the waters, 
assured me of their beneficial effects. But any 
want of observation upon my part has been fully 
supplied by Dr. W. W. Dawson, of Cincinnati, a 
gentleman of science and learning in the profes- 
sion, who spent the entire summer of 1858 at the 
springs. In his '^ Observations at the Springs in 
1858," he gives a clear and satisfactory account of 
the curative power of the water in dyspepsia, and 
the various depravities of the stomach ; in diseases 
of the liver, and in various chronic affections of 
the bowels and kidneys. 

Dr. Dawson reports a very interesting case of 
chronic Pericarditis that was entirely cured by 
the water. He recommends its use in congestion 
of the lungs and tracheal tubes. In a case of 
chlorosis that came under his observation, it was 
signally successful ; and decided benefit was 



380 MINERAL SPRINGS OF OHIO. 

derived from its employment in cases of dropsical 
effusions.* 

Dr. D. informs us he had but little opportunity 
of seeing the waters tested in rheumatism, or in 
severe affections of the skin. But from my 
observations of the value of similar waters in 
those diseases, I should have great confidence in 
their use in such cases, especially when their 
internal use is connected with the warm or hot 
sulphur baths. I would make the same remark in 
reference to mercurial disease, commonly so 
called, or secondary lues, often hahitue of mineral 
fountains ; in such cases we may look to the free 
internal use of the water, with hot sulphur 
bathing, with much hope. 

Chalybeate Springs. — In addition to the sul- 
phur Artesian fountain of which we have been 
treating, there are in close proximity to it, and 
within the spring lawn, three other mineral 
springs deserving of notice. They are all im- 
pregnated with iron J two of them strongly so. 
The/ are known as the Chahjheate, the Magnesian, 
and the Saline Chalyheate Springs. 

The water of the Chalyheate is beautifully 
transparent and sparkling, of pleasant taste, and 
of the uniform temperatur«e of 56° Fah. 



"^Observations at the Ohio Wliite Sulphur Springs in 1858, 
by W. W. Dawson, M. D. 



I 



CHALYBEATE SPRINGS. 381 

Professor Wayne's chemical examinations found 
this spring to contain — 

Sulphate of iron, Chloride of calcium, 

Oxide of iron, Carhonate of lime, 

Sulphate of magnesia, Iodine, 
Sulphate of lime. Potash, 

Organic matter. 

Like other waters of its class, in which the 
chalybeate decidedly prevails, it is essentially 
tonic and alterative, and may be prescribed with 
advantage in cases of paucity or poverty of the 
blood, when unconnected with obstinate visceral 
obstructions ; in general debility resulting from 
prior violent disease, or from hemorrhagic or 
other discharges from the stomach, bladder, 
bowels or womb. In long-continued intermit- 
tents, and in dropsical effusions, they will prove 
beneficial. As a secondary remedy, following the 
use of sulphur waters, chalybeates often prove 
eminently serviceable in restoring the energies of 
the system and hastening a cure ; this is especially 
the case in neuralgia, and in that peculiar stomach 
affection known as gastralgia, as well as in that 
nervous and debilitated state of the system the 
result of excessive or improper indulgences. 

In leucorrhoea, chlorosis, and amenorrhoea and 
its general attendant sterility, such waters have 
always enjoyed a high and well-deserved celebrity ) 



382 MINERAL SPRINGS OF OHIO. 

indeed, if clialybeate waters had no other claim to 
confidence than their admitted efficacy in curing 
the obstinate and health-undermining obstructions 
in females, they would still stand a choice boon of 
a benificent Providence. 

The Magnesian Spring is shown, by Professor 
Wayne, to contain iron, magnesia, lime, potassa, 
iodine and organic matter. 

The principal difference between this and the 
Chalybeate Spring, is occasioned by its containing 
a large amount of sulphate of magnesia, but a 
smaller amount of iron than the chalybeate, 
which, consequently, render it more purgative, 
but less tonic than the latter. Indeed, the waters 
of this spring contain a sufficient amount of 
magnesia to make it, when freely drunk, decidedly 
purgative. 

The occasional use of proper quantities of this 
Avater by patients using the sulphur or chalybeate, 
and when these waters do not sufficiently move 
the bowels, may often be highly beneficial. 

The Saline CHALYBBAie Spring has not heretofore 
been much used. Dr. Wayne examined it chem- 
ically, and found it to contain, besides carbonic 
acid gas, oxide of iron, chloride of calcium, 
sulphate of lime, sulphate of magnesia, carbonate 
of lime, with small quantities of potassa, iodine 
and organic matter. 



YELLOW SPKING. 383 



As a medicinal water it differs in no leading or 
important respect from the chalybeate Spring.* 



The Yellow Spring- is in Green County, two 
miles west of the Miami Kiver, and sixty-four 
north of Cincinnati. Dr. Drake states that '^ it 
is a copious and constant fountain, ^hat issues 
hetween strata of arenaceous limestone, and thus 
has geological characters perfectly identical with 
the Chalybeate Springs of the Olympian valley in 
Kentucky." The temperature of the water is the 
same as of the other springs of the neighborhood, 
52° Fall. The water is beautifully transparent, 
with a slight ferruginous taste, and is said to 
resemble in its composition the other limestone 
springs of the country, with the addition of the 
carbonate of iron. 

Dr. Drake informs us ^' that its water is diuretic 
and slightly laxative, if it can be considered as 
having this effect at all with any uniformity." 
He considers the water rather restorative than 
curative, and as such is valuable for convalescents. 
He regards it as a pleasant tonic, and hence 
valuable in cases of debility, or exhaustion fol- 
lowing previous violent attacks, and in nervous 
disorders. 



* For a full account of these waters, see a pam^phlet entitled the 
" Ohio White Sulj^hur Springs.'' 



384 MINERAL SPRINGS OF OHIO. 

The Westport Spring. — It arises (Dr. Bell) ^' in 
the bed of Deer Creek, a tributary of the Scioto 
Eiver, from a vast bed of clay-slate, which, for 
many miles forms the bed of the creek." It is a 
bold fountain, yielding some twenty gallons of 
water a minute. It belongs to the saline class ^ 
and contains sulphate of magnesia and iron, the 
latter being held in solution by carbonic acid, 
which gives the water a lively and sparkling 
appearance as it rises to the surface. The water 
is said to be mildly cathartic. It will, doubtless, 
be found valuable in dyspepsia, gastralgia, and a 
numerous class of functional derangements of the 
chylopoietic viscera. 



MINERAL SPRINGS OF TENNESSEE. 385 



CHAPTEK XXYI. 

MINERAL SPRIKGS OF TEXXESSEE. 

Whitens Creek Spring— Robertson's — Wincliester — BeersTieba — Mont- 
vale — Tate's— Lee's Sulphur and Clialyleate — Alum Springs — 
Warm Spring on tJie French Broad. 

The same great Apalachian chain of monntains 
that extend through Virginia, and affords what 
is there known as the ^^ Spring Eegion," continues 
its course southwesterly through the State of 
Tennessee from the northeastern to the south- 
western horder of the State, gradually losing its 
elevation as it goes South, until, finally, in Ala-' 
bama, it sinks into the alluvial plains that extend 
to the Grulf of Mexico. 

This extensive mountain range_, or rather series 
of mountains, running on the same parallel, is 
called in Tennessee the Cumberland range, and 
divides East Tennessee from Middle Tennessee. 

On the southern border of the State, for near 
tv70 hundred miles in length, is the great chain 
of Blue Eidge mountains, a continuation of 
the same lofty range that in Yirginia, separates 
between the Great Valley and Eastern Virginia. 
- In Tennessee, this range of mountains is on the 
line between that State and North Carolina, South 
33 



386 MINERAL SPRINGS OF TENNESSEE. 

Carolina and Georgia. Both of these great moun- 
tain ranges afford essentially the same geological 
characteristics in Tennessee, that they do in Vir- 
ginia. And on their slopes, and near their base, 
in the latter as in the former State, mineral springs 
of various qualities and strength are known to 
exist. But as yet in Tennessee but few of these 
springs have been improved, and made places of 
resort for the invalid, or the general public ; nor 
have they yet, as a general thing, made out a 
satisfactory record of their precise qualit}^, or 
medicinal applicabilities. 

The Saline and Sidpliurous and the Carhonated 
iron waters are those most frequently met with in 
this State. I proceed to mention those that have 
been introduced to public notice as places of 
■valetudinary or pleasure resorts. 

White's Creek Spring is twelve miles from 
Nashville. It is held in high estimation by many, 
and is considerably resorted to. It is said to con- 
tain sulphur, iron and magnesia, the former in 
large proportion. In cutaneous disorders and 
calculous affections it has been much praised for 
its curative powers. 

Eobertson Springs belong to the class oi saline 
waters. They are twenty miles from Nashville. 

Winchester Springs are four miles from the 
pleasant town of Winchester, in Franklin County, 



WINCHESTER AND BEERSHEBA SPRINGS. 387 

on tlie ISTasliville and Chattanooga Kailroad, 
seventy miles from ISTasliville, and fifty from 
Chattanooga. 

There are here, in close proximity, /oz«" different 
springs, Ked and White Sulphur, Chalybeate 
and Freestone. These springs enjoy considerable 
celebrity and patronage, and are well worthy of 
attention both as a place of healthful and pleasur- 
able resort. 

In the same neighborhood, and but four miles 
distant, other springs have been discovered, called 
Allisona Springs. They resemble the Winchester 
Springs in quality, and promise to be of equal 
medicinal value. 

Beersheba Springs are on the summit of one of 
the spurs of the Cumberland Mountain, in the 
County of Grundy, about twelve miles northeast 
from McMinnsville. They have come into notice 
as a watering place within the last four years. 

The water is a saline chalybeate, and is regarded 
as valuable tonic alterative. 

These springs have been tastefully and conveni- 
ently improved for the accommodation of from 
four to five hundred persons. 

The scenery surrounding the Beersheba Springs 
is both beautiful and picturesque, and remarkable 
alike for its extent of range and its wild and 
romantic prospects. 

There are here some fifteen or twenty elegant 



388 MINERAL SPRINGS OF TENNESSEE. 

cottage residences, belonging to, and generally 
occupied by, wealthy families of Nasbville, and 
other parts of the Southwest. 

The society assembled at this place during the 
summer is aways select, elegant and cultivated, 
and this, in connection with the value of the 
waters, and the salubrious character of the atmos- 
phere, make Beerslieba a very desirable summer 
retreat. 

Through the entire circuit of East Tennessee, 
as bounded by the Cumberland range of mountains 
on the JSTorth and the Blue Kidge on the South, 
mineral waters are abundant^, and some, particu- 
larly of the saline and clialyheate character, have 
been demonstrated to be of excellent quality. 

MoNTVALE Springs are in Blount County, twenty- 
four miles south of Knoxville. They belong to 
the saline class. 

The analysis of these waters by Professor 
Mitchell, shows that they contain in one gallon 
of water — 

Chloride of sodium 1-96 

Sulphate of magnesia,... , 12-00 

Sulphate of lime 74-21 

Sulphate of soda. 4-51 

Carbonate of lime .- 13-26 

Carbonate of iron 2-40 

They also show traces of potash and organic 
matter, with an excess of carbonic acid. 



MONTVALE SPKIXGS. 6i5\) 

The Montvale are valuable waters, and very 
favorably represent the class to which they belong. 
In many of the dyspeptic depravities, and generally 
in the chronic disorders of the abdominal and 
pelvic viscera, they are used with great success. 

They enjoy considerable reputation in the cure 
of clironic diarrhosa, a disease very common and 
very fatal in our extreme Southern latitudes. In 
the summer of 1854, the author spent several 
weeks at Montvale, and witnessed the operation of 
its waters in quite a number of cases of this dis- 
ease. In those in which it was used in quantities, 
but slightly provocative of increased operations 
from the bowels, and in which a guarded for- 
bearance in diet and general living was observed, 
it proved eminently useful, and especially in cases 
connected with, and kept up by, depraved biliary 
secretions. While, on the other hand, those who 
used the water in full purgative doses derived no 
benefit, and some were injured. The best article in 
the Materia Medica may be so misused as to render 
it inert or injurious, and the invalid at this, and all 
the mineral springs, should remember that it is 
not, as many seem to suppose, to drink and he 
Jiealed, but so to drink as to secure the proper and 
sanative effects of the agent.* 

The waters of the Montvale more resemble those 



* See account of Montvale Springs, by J. J, Moorman, M. D., 
published in 1855. 

33* 



390 MINERAL SPRINGS OF TENNESSEE. 

of the Alleghany Springs in Virginia, than any 
other with which we can compare them. 

Tate's Springs are in the County of Granger. 
They are saline waters, and are very like those of 
Montvale, but hold in solution a larger amount of 
iron. 

Lee's Springs are twenty miles east of Knoxville. 
There are here two Sulphur and a Chalybeate 
Spring. The sulphurs are good waters of their 
class ; the chalybeate is pure and strong, and 
superior to many waters of its kind. 

At the town of Kutledge, in Granger County, is 
a very strong sulphurous spring, and near Beans 
Station, in the same county, are several beautiful 
fountains of sulphur water, abounding in red and 
white deposits. 

Alum Springs. — I have examined the waters 
from an Alum Spring, found near Kogersville, in 
Hawkins County, which compare favorably with 
any alum waters that are known. 

Warm Spring. — It is said that on the French 
Broad River, near the North Carolina line, there 
is a Warm Spring of 95° Fah., issuing from the 
bank of the river. 



SPRINGS OF NORTH CAROLINA. 391 



CHAPTEK XXVII. 

SPRINGS OF NORTH CAROLINA. 

Warm and Hot Springs of Buncoinbe — Sliocco Spring — Jones 
White Sulphur and Chalybeate — KittrelVs Spnngs. 

Xortli Carolina is not remarkable for mineral 
springs ; the most noted are the 

Warm and Hot Springs of Buncombe. — These 
thermal fountains arise on the western bank of 
the French Broad Kiver, and so near the stream 
that in times of high freshets they are overflown 
by its waters. 

The fountains are three in number, and vary in 
temperature from 94° to 104° Fah. 

Professor Smith obtained the following results 
from analyzing three quarts of the water : — - 

Muriate of lime and magnesia 4 grains. 

Sulpliate of magnesia G " 

Sulphate of lime 41-05 " 

Insoluble residue 2'05 " 

Loss 1 " 

27-10 
Equal to 4-66 grains in a pint. 

This water lies lightly upon the stomach, and 
is often used by visitors to the extent of three 



392 spRiNas OF north Carolina, 

quarts, or even more, in tlie course of the day. 
In sucli doses, it is said to excite active purgation 
when first used, hut after a few days it ceases to 
have any active effect. 

As a hath, these waters have a v/ide and appro- 
priate applicahility. The hath of ninety-four 
degrees, will very generally he found safe and 
salutary for most persons. Those of higher 
temperature should he used with caution, and with 
a prudent reference to the nature of the disease 
and the state of the system at the time of their 
use. As stated when treating of the Hot Springs 
in Virginia, hot haths are potent and positive 
agents ; they are revolutionary remedies, and, to 
he used safely and successfully, must he used with 
wise discrimination. They are unsuited to per- 
sons in ordinary health, and to all acute or 
suhacute cases, hut admirahly suited to many 
cases of ohstinate chronic diseases, especially to 
chronic rheumatism, x^alsy, and other cases 
depending upon ohstinate ohstructions and loss of 
vascular and nervous energy. 

An ahle writer upon haths, adopts the following 
decision as to their temperature, which may well 
he made a fixed rule to determine the import of 
language, Avhen we speak generally of the tem- 
perature of haths : — 



WARM SPRE^GS. 393 

1. The cold bath from 33° to 60° Fah. 

2. The cool bath " 60° to 70° " 

3. The temperate bath " 75° to 85° " 

4. The tepid bath " 85° to 92° " 

5. The warm bath " 92° to 98° " 

6. The hot bath " 98° to 112° " 

He remarks tliat '^the only upward limit of the 
hot batli, is that of tolerance by the living body 
immersed in it. As it regards the effectSj in a 
general way, of these several kind of baths, we 
may speak of them under two divisions, thera- 
peutically considered. In the first, from the 
warm down to cold, we shall find a calming and 
soothing operation continued, with the reduced 
temperature of the water, to the most depressing 
sedative, — in fact a reducing power ; and in the 
second, from the upper degrees of vv^armth, a 
stimulating and strongly exciting operation. 
What a mischievous error, therefore, is the too 
common one of confounding a warm with a hot 
bath, and directing the one for the other, as if 
they were convertible terms expressing the same 
thing, instead of being in direct contrast with 
each other. It may serve to indicate the striking 
difference between the warm bath and the hot 
bath, when I say that the first is a grateful 
hygienic agent, which almost everybody can make 
use of with benefit, in addition to its emjploy- 
ment as a therapeutical one in the treatment of 
disease ; whereas the hot bath is, or ought to be, 



3^4 SPRINGS OF NOrtTII CAROLINA. 

a remedial agent to be used solely in disease, and 
even then with considerable caution and discern- 
ment.'' 

Shocco Springs are situated nine miles from 
WarrentoUj in Warren County. They are a mild 
sulphurous saline water. My valued friendj Dr. 
Howard J of Warrenton, informs me that they are 
^' mildly aperient and actively diuretic, producing, 
after a few days' use, free bilious evacuations ; 
and that they are advantageously employed in the 
various diseases for which mild ^ulphur waters 
are usually prescribed." 

Shocco is improved by a large hotel and com- 
fortable cabins, that will pleasantly accommodate 
four hundred persons. 

Jones' White Sulphur and Chalybeate Springs 
are located about five miles from Shocco, and 
eleven from Warrenton ; they are improved for 
the accommodation of about three hundred and 
fifty visitors, and about that number may be found 
there at the height of the season. 

The White Sulphur is a mild sulphurous saline 
water, and acts favorably in certain hepatic 
derangements, jaundice, dyspepsia, etc. 

The Chalybeate is a strong ferruginous water ; 
the iron is held in solution by carbonic acid. 
Dr. Howard considers it an excellent tonic, and 
^^ well suited for all those cases characterized by 



kittrell's spPtmGS. 395 

an enfeebled ha"bit, and especially when tlie blood 
lias been deprived of its normal proportion of 
iron. It displays marked efficacy in those whose 
blood has been robbed of this important; ele- 
ment by malarious fevers; and in chlorosis, 
amenorrhoea," etc. 

Kittrell's Springs. — Immediately on the rail- 
road from Weldon to Raleigh, in the County of 
Granville, and half a mile from the village of 
Henderson, KittrelVs Springs are found. They 
have attracted public notice only for the last two 
or three years, and as yet there is but little 
improvement at the place for the accommodation 
of visitors. The water of these springs has 
acquired considerable local reputation for the cure 
of various diseases, and particularly for scrofulous 
affections. 

Chemical examinations have ascertained that 
the water holds in solution iron, magnesia, lime, 
alum, soda and potassa. 

These springs are probably destined to acquire 
a valuable medicinal reputation, and when 
properly improved, to become a place of con- 
siderable valetudinary resort. 



396 SPRINGS OF SOUTH CAEOLINA. 



CHAPTEK XXYIII. 

SPRINGS OF SOUTH CAROLINA. 

Glenn'' s — Wesfs — Springs in Abbeville and Laurens District, &c. — 
Chick's — WilUamstown Springs — Artesian Well in Charleston, 
dc, &c. 

Glenn's SpeingSj in Spartansburg District, have 
considerable notoriety for tbeir medicinal virtues. 

Professor Shepard, of Charleston, states that 
the waters of these springs are strongly impreg- 
nated with sulphur, and that they also contain 
traces of sulph. magnesia, with sulphate, per- 
carbonate, and chloride of lime. 

These springs are much resorted to by the 
people of the lower country. Their situation is 
pleasant, salubrious and healthful, and their 
waters are highly esteemed by many, particularly 
in dyspeptic affections. 

In the same district, and a few miles above the 
village of Spartansburg, there is a spring which 
is somewhat resorted to, and has acquired some 
local reputation. 

West's Spring is in the neighborhood of 
Glenn's, It is a chalybeate of good promise. 



chick's springs. 397 

Chalyheate Springs are found in various parts of 
the StatOj particularly in Abbeville and Laurens 
Districts. In Laurens three or four chalybeate 
and sulphur fountains are known, that arise in 
the slate and hornblende formations that exist 
between tlie Ennoree and the JSaluda, that are 
worthy of public attention. 

I am indebted to Professor S. H. Dickson for 
the information, that the springs most visited in 
South Carolina, are Chick'' s Springs, in Greenville 
District, on the Ennoree Kiver, just below the 
mountains, and JVilliamstoiun Springs, between 
Anderson and Greenville. 

Chick's Springs are two in number. One is 
slightly sulphurous, and is used for hepatic and 
intestinal affections and cutaneous disorders. The 
other is a mild chalybeate, and is employed as a 
tonic. 

The WiLLiAMSTOWN Springs have never been 
analyzed, so far as I know. They are supposed to 
be both tonic and alterative. 

Charleston Artesian Well. — The water ob- 
tained from this well has acquired some reputation 
as a remedial agent. An analysis of this water 
shows that one gallon contains nearly the third 
of an ounce of solid matter. Half of this is 
common salt, and three-quarters of the remainder 
34 



398 SPRINGS OF SOUTH CAROLINA. 

are carbonate of soda. It has also traces of 
j)otasli, bromide of magnesia, sulphate of lime, 
borate of soda, silica and flourine. It has been 
much used in Charleston, and many affirm that it 
relieves various derangements of the stomach and 
bowels. , Professor Dickson informs me that horses 
are extremely fond of it, and that it is believed to 
act upon them beneficially, in promoting their 
ready fattening, and giving them a smooth and 
glossy coat. This water is exported in bottles 
and sold in considerable quantities in the ISTorth- 
ern cities. 



SPRIXaS OF GEORGIA. 399 



CHAPTER XXIX. 
SPRINGS OF GEORGIA. 

Indian — Madison — Warm Springs — Gordon's — Catoosa Springs. 

The Indian Springs, in the County of Butts, 
are suljohurous loaters, and are considerably visited 
and much relied upon as remedial agents. They 
have been used with excellent effect in chronic 
rheumatism, and for various diseases of the liver 
and stomach. 

The Madison Springs have long been regarded 
as a pure and excellent cJialyheate. They are 
found in the County of Madison, and are much 
visited by those who desire the use of iron tonics. 

The Warm Springs are in the County of Merri- 
wether. Their temperature is 95°. They have 
acquired considerable reputation for the cure of 
rheumatism, gout, and other chronic affections' for 
which such waters are commonly employed. 

They are all situated in pleasant and salubrious 
districts, and so far elevated above the sea-board 
as to secure them against malarial influences. 



400 SPRINGS OF GEORGIA. 

Professor Kichard D. Arnold, of Savannali, in a 
communication to Dr. Bell, thus speaks of this 
and the Indian spring waters : 

'^ You have chalybeate s|)rings in abundance at 
the ISTorthj but I doubt very much if any two 
springs can anywhere be .found combining such 
decided medicinal qualities as tlie Indian and the 
Merr ho ether Warm Springs. They are also of 
very easy access from the North. One of our fine 
sea steamers would land a patient at our wharves 
in sixty hours, from New York, and our railroad 
would convey him to within sixteen miles of the 
Indian Springs and about fifty of the Warm 
Springs. The former would be reached within 
four and a-half days of travel from New York, 
and the latter within five and a-half days/' 

Gordon's Springs, in the County of Murray^ and 
Kowland's Springs, in the County of Cass, are 
chalyheates, and, within the last few years, are 
said to be attracting some attention from invalids. 

Catoosa Springs are in the County of Catoosa, 
in the extreme western part of the State. They 
have not been analyzed, but are regarded as a 
saline chalybeate. They have been improved for 
the accommodation of several hundred persons, 
and are much visited during the watering season. 



SPRINGS OF ALABAMA. 401 



CHAPTER XXX. 

SPRINGS OF ALABAMA. 

Bladen Spiings — Bailey's Spnngs — TallaJiatta Spnngs. 

Alabama has several springs of decidedly 
marked properties, tlie most rioted of which is 

Bladen Springs, in the County of Clarke. 
These springs are within three miles of the Tom- 
beckhee River, eighty-five from Mobile, and seven 
from Coffeeville. The country surrounding them 
is broken and hilly, and the growth of the forest 
is pine, hickory, oak, etc., and is well supplied 
with wholesome water. 

The accommodations at the sj)rings are sufficient 
for several hundred visitors. 

Six fountains, differing slightly from each other, 
issue from the earth within a small compass, fur- 
nishing an abundant supply of water. 

Professor Brumby, of the University of Ala- 
bama, has analyzed the Bladen waters j* and from 
a wine pint obtained the follow^ing results : 



We are indebted to Dr. Bell's work on Mineral and Thennal 
9, for many facts in reference to the springs of the extreme 
Southern States. 

34* 



402 SPRINGS OF ALABAMA. 

Sulphuretted hydrogen, quantity not ascertained. 

Carbonic acid gas 4-075 cubic inches. 

Chloride of sodium 0-9625 

Oxide of iron 0-0300 

Sulphate of lime , 0-0019 

Crenic acid ...- 0-0912 '* 

Loss 0-0400 

Carbonate of soda 4-1112 

of lune 0-3437 

" oflnagnesia 0-1706 

Silica of alumina 0-2631 

Apocrenic acid. 0-0750 " 

The relatively large amount of carbonate of 
soda, with free carbonic acid, in this spring, classes 
it among the acidulous waters. 

In various affections of the stomach, bowels and 
kidneys, as well as in chronic rheumatism and 
diseases of the skin, the Bladen waters would 
prove valuable. 

Bailey's Spring is in Lauderdale County, nine 
miles from Florence, and fourteen from Tuscum- 
bia. The water is cool^ transparent, and essen- 
tially tasteless. 

It has been chemically examined by Dr. Curry, 
of Knoxville, and is shown to contain sulphuretted 
hydrogen, carbonic acid, carbonates of soda and 
magnesia, oxide of iron in union with carbonic 
acid, carbonate of potash and chloride of sodium. 

The composition of this water shows that it 
would prove valuable in the various functional 



SPRINGS OF MISSISSIPPI. 403 

disorders of the abdominal and pelvic organs, in 
mercurial diseases, and generally in chronic 
affections of the skin^ as well as in rheumatism 
and gout. 

Besides the springs before noticed, the Talla- 
HATTA Springs are much visited by persons in that 
part of the State. These waters are said to con- 
tain sulphur ; magnesia, lime, and the salts of 
iron. 



CHAPTER XXXL 
SPRINGS OF MISSISSIPPI 

Cooper's Well — Ocean Springs. 

Cooper's Well is the most noted mineral 
fountain in Mississippi ; it is in the County of 
Hinds, twelve miles west of Jackson, and four 
from Raymond, the shire town of the county, and 
near the Jackson Railroad. 

The water rises in an Artesian well, one hundred 
and seven feet deep, through solid sandstone rock. 
The surrounding country is broken and diversified, 
and is thought to be dry and salubrious. The 
water of this well is an active saline cJialyheate. 



404 SPRINGS OF MISSISSIPPI. 

An analysis of one gallon of the water, by Dr. 
J. Lawrence Smith, gives in gaseous contents: — 

Oxygen 6*5 cubic inclies- 

Nitrogen 4-5 " 

Carbonic acid 4'0 " 

Solid contents : — 

Sulphate of soda 11'705 grains. 

of magnesia 23-280 " 

of lime 32-132 " 

of potash 0-608 " 

" of alumina 6.120 " 

Chloride of sodium 8-360 " 

of calcium 4-322 

" of magnesium 3-480 " 

Peroxide of iron 3-362 " 

Crenate of lime 0-311 " 

Creitate of silica 1*801 " 

105-471 " 

The de-ioosit obtained by evaporating the water 
contains in one hundred and five grains — 

Water 38 grains. 

Chloride of lime 2 " 

Sulphate of lime 25 " 

Peroxide of iron 25 " 

This water is said to lose none of its qualities 
by being kept from the fountain. 

The water of Cooper's Well enjoys a high repu- 
tation in dyspepsia and the various intestinal 



cooper's well. 405 

diseases of long standing ; in liver conaplaintSj 
chronic inflammation of the bladder, in dropsy, 
and especially in clironic diarrlioea. Its analysis 
shows that it is a medicinal agent of very decided 
powers. 

Dr. Foster's case, as reported by Dr. I. M. Sims, 
of Montgomery, Alabama, is very remarkable. 
It was a chronic diarrhoea in its worst form, 
emaciation extreme, skin dry, eyes sunken, ex- 
pression so ghastly as to cause a lady to faint at 
sight of him, small and feeble pulse, frequent 
and copious digestions from the bowels. Dr. F. 
commenced by taking a wine glass full of the 
water four times during the day, gradually in- 
creasing the amount until he drank a pint in the 
course of the day. In eight weeks he was cured, 
and returned home a well man. 

The medical properties of this water eltq cathartic 
or aperient, according to quantity, diuretic, sudori- 
fic, tonic and alterative, all of which are possessed 
in a high degree. It is adapted to an extensive 
range of disease, chiefly chronic. The digestive, 
nutritive and secretory functions are brought 
directly into action from almost any point of de- 
rangement. As an alterative, it is unequaled by 
any medicine, either simple or compound, yet in use. 
The numerous class of diseases, unmanageable in 
the hands of physicians, relieved by this water, re- 
commend it entirely to the medical profession. 
And both the promptness and certainty of its 



408 : SPRINGS OF MISSISSIPPI. 

action entitle it to tlie highest consideration of 
tlie invalid. Dyspepsia in all its forms, and at 
any stage, chronic diarrhcea, utterly hopeless 
under medical treatment, dropsies, and the multi- 
tude of affections subjected to alterative and tonic 
treatment, are controlled by its agency. The 
whole glandular system is powerfully aroused, 
including, of course, the biliary secretion. Its 
chalybeate properties enrich the blood, imparting 
tone and vigor to the system, and the quantity of 
carbonic acid gas with which the water is charged 
is immediately perceptible from its proper ex- 
hilarating influence. 

While as a remedy in that scourge of the South, 
chronic diarrhoea, this water may be looked to 
generally with great hope ; a careful discrimina- 
tion is nevertheless necessary in using it in such 
cases, for, if the diarrhoea be connected with, or 
dependent upon, a diseased condition of the lungs, 
it would prove positively injurious, and hasten 
a fatal tendency. 

The Ocean Springs are situated in the pine hills 
of Jackson County, five miles from the town of 
Biloxi, half a mile from Biloxi Bay, and near 
Fort Bayou. 

One gallon of this water has in gaseous con- 
tents : — 

Carbonic acid 4-632 grains. 

Sulphuretted hydrogen 0-481 " 



In solid contents : — 

Chloride of sodium 47-770 grains. 

of calcium 3-882 

" of magnesium 4-889 " 

Protoxide of iron 4-712 " 

With traces of iodine, organic matter, chloride of potassium and 
alumina. 

Dr. Bell, in quoting Dr.- J. Laurence Smith, 
remarks, that the iron is doubtless in combination 
with both the sulphuretted hydrogen and carbonic 
acid gases ; the excess of carbonic acid holding 
both these combinations in solution. 

Dr. Austin, of ITew Orleans, in a letter to Dr. 
Bell, states that striking cures have been wrought 
by these waters in many chronic diseases ; among 
them are affections of the skin, scrofula, dyspepsia, 
and strumous ophthalmia. 

The Ocean Springs are very easy of approach 
both from New Orleans and Mobile, being about 
ninety miles distant from both places. 



408 sPEmas of Arkansas. 



CHAPTEE XXXII. 

SPRINGS OF ARKANSAS. 

The Hot Springs of Arkansas, commonly known 
as the Washita Springs, are among the most re- 
markable thermal fountains in the world. 

They are located in Hot Springs County, latitude 
34° 5\ longitude 16° 1\ about fifty-five miles 
southwest from Little Kock. Hot Spring Valley 
runs due north and south between the two spurs 
of the Ozark Mountains, through which a bold 
creek heads its way over an almost unbroken bed 
of slate, emptying into the Ouachita river, about 
five miles distant. 

Hot Springs Mountain lies on the east of the 
valley, from the w^est side of which gush the Hot 
Springs, arising upwards of two hundred feet 
from the level of the valley, and from the very 
base, and many from the bottom of the creek; the 
valley is about three hundred feet wide, and 
eight hundred yards in length. Fifty-four hot 
springs have been tested in temperature, whilst 
many at tlie bottom of the creek, and under the 
ledges, cannot, except with too great labor. 
About 350 gallons of hot water is discharged into 



HOT SPRINGS. 409 

the creek per minute from said fifty-four springs^ 
which affords the enormous yield of 504^000 
gallons in twenty-four hours. The largest spring 
discharges 60 gallons of hot water per minute at 
temperature of 148°, and will cook eggs in fifteen 
minutes. There is only one hot spring on the 
west side of the creek, called the alum, and im- 
mediately opposite, on the east side, one of sulphur, 
though very slightly impregnated with either. 
There are only four cold water springs in the vi- 
cinity of the Hot Springs, viz : one Chalybeate 70° 
temperature, south end of valley, two Freestone 
70° temperature, north end, and one Chalybeate 
69°, quarter mile north-east. There are two 
wells in the valley about 20 feet deep, 70° tem- 
]3erature. 'Water boils on the summit of Hot 
Spring Mountain at 208°, scant 520 feet elevation 
for each degree, less 212 degrees, gives nearly 
2,100 feet above level of the sea. In Hot Springs 
Valley water boils at 209°_, which makes hot 
Springs Mountain 560 feet above the valley. 

On the summit of the mountain are heavy pine 
and oak timber, abounding with clusters of grape- 
vines, huge masses of quartz rock, apparently 
upheaved by some convulsion of nature ; imme- 
diately below the summit, sharp cornered broken 
honey-comb rocks, with sparkling surfaces; still 
lower, a heavy undergrowth of pines and other 
trees, and from thence, where the Hot Springs 
flow to the base, calcarious tufa. 
35 



410 SPRINGS OF ARKANSAS. 

The temperature of thirty of these springs as 
measured by Fahrenheit thermometer, is as fol- 
lows : — 

RECTOR SPRINGS. 

1 spring 148° 

2 " 120° 

3 " 128° 

4 " 146° 

5 " 107° 

6 " 138° 

7 " chalybeate 146° 

8 " mudbath « 140° 

9 " 128° 

10 " 148° 

Analysis of these Hot Springs, as tested by 
David Dale Owen, M. D., Geologist of Arkansas, 
and E. P. Cox, viz : Carbonate of Lime — Silicate 
of Magnesia, and a trace of Iron. 

HALE'S HOT SPRINGS. 

1 spring ...130° 

2 " 110° 

3 " 148° 

4 " 120° 

5 " 108° 

6 " 148° 

7 " Hog spring 146° 

8 " 136° 

9 " 146° 

10 " 130° 

11 Pool of Betliesda or mudbatli 110° 

winter, 113° spring, and in month 
July 118° 



HOT SPRINGS. 411 

12 spring 120° 

13 " 120° 

14 " -! 100° 

15 " Sulplim-" 128° 

16 " Alum 134° 

17 very small ". 104° 

18 used for drinking and called arsenic 136° 

19 Next to and very large 136° 

20 Mud bath adjoining 124° 

It will be perceived that these Springs differ in' 
temperature from 100° to 148° Fall. These results 
were arrived at by testing them at three different 
hours of the day, viz : between 4 and 6 o'clock 
A. M., 12 M., and between 4 and 6 P. M. There 
is no perceptible difference in the temperature 
tested at those several periods. 

The vapor haths that have been constructed 
here, stand at 112°, the douche , a spirit bath, at 
120°, and the saving hath at 116°, the two latter 
varying slightly, from the negligence of the 
attendants. 

The analysis J by Dr. Owen, of what is termed 
the Rector House Well, shows it to contain bi-carbo- 
nates of lime, magnesia and iron, sub-carbonates of 
magnesia, iron and soda, chloride of sodium, and 
sulphates of soda and magnesia in small quanti- 
ties. 

The medicinal effects of this water, internally 
used, is slightly aperient^ anti-acid, and tonic. 

It has been observed by Dr. Owen that all 
springs, wells, and water courses of this region of 



412 SPRINGS OP ARKANSAS. 

country, partake of some mineral impregnation in 
a greater or less degree. 

A heavy fog continually liangs over these 
springs, and upon the sides of the mountains, 
giving the neighborhood the appearance, at a 
little distance, of a number of furnaces in active 
operation. 

The water is, essentially, tasteless, very clear, 
pure and transparent, and does not deposit sedi- 
ment by standing. 

Near the edges of the springs is found luxu- 
riously growing a species of green algaey which 
seems to delight in these natural hot beds, while 
the sides of the mountain are covered with 
luxuriant vines, continually watered by the con- 
densation of the vapor from the springs. 

Mr. Featherstonhaugh, in his Geological Keport 
of 1835, remarks that the lofty ridges around 
these springs consist of old red sandstone forma- 
tion. Upon the eastern ridge are found fragments 
of the rock, often ferruginous, with conglomerate 
united by ferruginous cement. Upon the side of 
this ridge are found travertin^ deposited by the 
mineral waters, extending the distance of one 
hundred and fifty yards, resting upon the old red 
sandstone, presenting, sometimes, abrupt escarp- 
ments of from fifteen to twenty feet. 

A number of these hot fountains arise through 
the slate formation at the base of the creek, 
numerous others, perhaps upwards of thirty. 



HOT SPRINGS. 413 

wliicli, from tlieir copiousness, are regarded as 
the principal springs, arise tlirough tlie old red 
sandstone at different heights on the side of the 
ridge. Springs of fuller force, arising along the 
side of the ridge, are very numerous. Some issue 
from the rock at an altitude of more than one 
hundred feet from the base of the creek below. 
This immense body of hot water, occupying a 
length of near a quarter of a mile along the base 
of the mountains aud over-pouring into tbe ci'eek, 
makes the most extensive pool for hot and warm 
bathing known to the world. So hot are the 
waters in this creek in djy weather, when its 
natural current is reduced, that it is necessary to 
go a half or three-quarters of a mile below the 
entrance of the hot waters, before a temperature 
sufficiently low for bathing can be obtained. 

There are other mineral springs in the neigli- 
borhood, one seven miles from Hot Springs, 
slightly predominating with sulphur. Another in 
three miles, sulphur and chalybeate. The chaly- 
beate affords water enough to drive a small grist 
mill, by conducting the water through a trough. 
These springs being convenient to the Hot 
Springs, are much resorted to by the invalids, as 
it becomes necessary to rest from the laborious use 
of and debilitating effects of the hot water. 

At the eastern side of the Hot Spring Mountain, 
(immediately opposite the hot springs in the 
valley,) gushes a magnificent cold chalybeate, 
35* 



414 SPRINGS Oi^ ARKANSAS. 

affording about five gallons of water per minute^, 
overshadowed by a perpendicular cliff of quartz 
one hundred and fifty feet high ; temperature 68°: 
which modestly commingles its salubrious crys- 
tal with the white waters of the dashing Gulpher, 
a bold, sparkling creek^ leaping from rock to rock, 
and foaming in solitary wildness, skirting each 
dale and mountain in its hurried meanderings to 
the rugged bosom of the rocky Ouachita. This is 
a Y/(3nderful circumstance, worthy the attention of 
philosophers and sages, that out of the same 
mountain should issue both hot and cold wafer ; 
like unto Esop's Satyr, who blew hot and cold 
out of the same mouth. 

On account of the strife existing between several 
litigants and the General Government for the 
ownership of these famous Hot Springs, (whicli 
has been pending for twenty years, and when the 
right shall be determined is quite uncertain,) the 
present occupants have been cautious, and, conse- 
quently, the accommodations for visitors are 
neither as extensive or convenient as is desirable. 
The present capacity of the different establish- 
ments for entertaining company is about six 
hundred. 

These waters are the best representatives we 
have in the Atlantic Staters of the European waters 
of Baden-Baden, Wisbaden, Carlsbad, and Teplitz 
in Bohemia. 

They are used internally as well as externally, 



HOT SPRINGS. . 415 

and possess valuable therapeutic powers. They are 
employed externally both as vapor and hot water 
baths, by cooling down the water to the desired 
temperature. Their powers are greatly praised 
by many who have used Ihem in various chronic 
affections, particularly in rheumatism, gout, scrof- 
ula, diseases of the shin, mercurial diseases, and 
secondary lues. 

I have had a somewhat large professional 
observation of patients who had been under the 
use of these waters for various chronic affections, 
and have, professionally, sent patients there for 
the more intractable forms of mercurial rheuma- 
tism, and the results of my observations have 
been very favorable as to the therapeutic power of 
the waters. 

The late Judge Watts, thus describes the 
common method of using these waters :* 



* Mineral and Thermal Springs of tlie United States and 
Canada. 

**Tlie principal Spring Vit Baden-Baden \^ the Unsprung, its 
temperature is 154° Fah. Its water contains 184 grains of saline 
matter to the gallon, 128 grains of wliich is chloride of sodium. 

There are fourteen different springs at Carslbad, of which the 
Spimdel is the hottest. Its temperature is 168° Fah. Two of the 
other springs are respectively of the temperature of 144° and 
137° Fah. These waters hold in solution about 352 grains of 
solid matter to the gallon, consisting of the muriates, sulphates 
and carbonates of soda, with minute portions of iodine and iron. 

The Teplitz Springs, (in Bohemia,) range in temperature from 
84° to 120° Fah. Their chief ingredient is the carbonate of soda, 
in the proportion of about 20 grains to the gallon. 



416 SPRIXGS OF ARKANSAS. 

^' The mode of using the waters, most gener- 
ally, is by taking a steam bath. For this purpose 
a small building, fifteen feet long by five feet 
wide, is erected. One half of it is used for an 
ante-room, in which to dress and undress, the 
other half is the bath room. The floor of the 
bathing room consists of slats, which are two 
inches wide and two inches apart, and is placed 
over one of these large springs which issue from 
the rock. The water throws off the steam, which, 
rises between the slats. For the first three or 
four minutes the body is dry, but afterwards a 
profuse perspiration breaks out, which runs from 
every pore. The temperature of the steam room is 
116° Fall. This occasions no inconvenience, but 
for persons who apprehend a congestion of the 
vessels of the head, a hole is made through the 
roof through which a person can breathe the 
external air, the body being immersed in steam. 
The patient usually remains thirty or forty 
minutes in the bathing room, and, when he comes 
out, it is not uncommon for two or three buckets 
of cold water to be thrown over him in the dress- 
ing room. There is no danger of taking cold if 
the most ordinary precaution is used. It is not 
unusual to take a steam bath in the forenoon and 
a water bath in the afternoon. The water bath is 
frequently taken in a creek, into which all the hot 
Springs run." When the water is used for tub 
bathing it is allowed to stand for some hours 
until it cools to the desired temperature. 



SPRINGS OF FLORIDA. 417 

In reference to tlie common dread of taking 
cold from hot batlis. Dr. Bull lias clearly sliown 
by physiological reasoning, and experience abun- 
dantly verifies the correctness of his positions, 
that there is less danger of cold being taken when 
the nervous and vascular system is somewhat 
excited, than when they are in an opposite condi- 
tion. 

About three miles from the Hot Springs there 
is a cJialyheate siwing, which is said to be of very 
fine quality. 

In Ifontgomery County, forty miles from the Hot 
Springs, is a spring known as ^'Bill Iron's Salt 
Sulphur j" which is said to possess highly exhilira- 
ting properties, so much so as to produce the 
peculiar symptoms of incipient intoxication. 

SPRINGS OF FLORIDA. 

There are light sulphurous waters in various 
parts of Florida, but none have become places of 
large visitation. Among these may be mentioned 
the Sulphur Spring near Tampa. It arises from a 
bed of limestone. The water is remarkably clear 
and transparent, and forms a basin at its source 
eighteen feet deep. 

There are several springs on the St. John's and 
Suwannee rivers, known as the ^lagnolia, the 
Walake, and the Enterprise Springs — all sul- 
phurous. 



418 SPRINGS OF FLORIDA. 

At the Magnolia, a sanatarium lias been estab- 
lished for the reception of invalids who may wish 
to spend the winter in that climate. 

We are told by a writer in the Floridian 
Journal, that Florida greatly abounds in mineral 
waters, and that their solid contents consist 
generally of the sulphates of lime, soda and 
magnesia, with oxide of iron. Their gaseous con- 
tents of sulphuretted hydrogen, carbonic acid and 
nitrogen gases. But too little, as yet, is known of 
these springs to determine with certainty their 
relative or positiye merits, 



MINERAL SPRINGS OF NEW YORK. 419 



CHAPTEK XXXIII. 

MINERAL SPRINGS OF NEW YORK. 

Saratoga and BalUton Group — Congress — Piitnum — Pavillion — 
Union — High Rock — Iodine — Flat Bock — Hamilton — Washing- 
ton — Empire — At BaUston — Sans Souci — Low's Well — Park 
Well — JVew and Old Washington Springs — Sulphur Springs — 
Classification .of Waters — Geologiccd p)Osition — Thermalization of 
Waters — Analysis of tlie various Springs, <&c., &c. 

l^ext to Yirginia, l^ew York is more distin- 
guislied for the number and variety of her mineral 
springs than an}^ State of the Union. With less 
variety in the composition of her waters than 
Virginia, she nevertheless possesses some of very 
high medicinal characterj and that have more 
largely attracted public attention than any other 
waters in America. I allude, of course, to the 
distinguished group known as the Saratoga and 
Ballsto7i Springs. This entire group possesses 
essentially the same properties and virtues ] the 
difference between the several springs consisting 
merely in the proportions of their relative gaseous 
and saline contents. • 

The famous series of springs at Saratoga, com- 
prise the several springs known as Congress ^ 



420 MINERAL SPRINGS OF NEW YORK. 

Futnitm, Fav'illion, Union, High Rock, Iodine, Flat 
Rock, Hamilton, Columhian, Washington and Em- 
pire. 

Of late years public preference seems to have 
concentrated on the Congress Spring. Although 
the water of this fountain contains, in an essential 
degree, the ingredients found in all the other 
springs composing the group, the distinguished 
preference given to it over the others, is probably 
owing as much to accidental circumstances and the 
caprice of fashion, as to any well considered medi- 
cinal superiority over its neighboring compeers. 

The village of Ballston Spa lies about seven 
miles south-west from Saratoga. The large resort 
to this place, on account of its mineral springs, 
make it, like Saratoga, a place of considerable 
notoriety. 

The mineral springs of Bcdlston, comprise the 
Sans Souci, Loiv's Fark, the New and the Old 
Washington Springs, and the Sidphur Spring. 

The waters of Ballston, with the exception of 
the Sulphur Spring, evidently belong to the same 
class with those of the Saratoga group. And 
although they do not contain quite so large a pro- 
portion of saline qualities as some of the Sara- 
toga fountains, they are, nevertheless, entitled to 
rank high among the acidulous chalybeate waters 
of our country. 

In classifying the Saratoga and Ballston springs, 
we may well regard them as acidulo-saline or car- 



SARATOGA AND BALLSTON. 421 

honated saline waters. Their large amount of 
carbonic acid gas, and carbonates, with their - 
heavy impregnation with chloride of sodium, 
distinctly assign them to this class. 

This extensive group of mineral fountains, we 
are told by Dr. Steel,* ^^are found along the 
southern termination of the secondary, and in the 
immediate vicinity of the transition formation. 
They are scattered along a line running nearly 
east and west for a distance of about twenty miles. 
At Ballston Spa there are a number of these 
springs, some of which make their appearance at 
the surface through alluvial deposits of plastic 
clay, or marl and sand, while others haye been 
obtained by boring to a considerable depth in the 
transition slate which here forms the basis on 
which rests the alluvial deposit. Between this 
place and the village of Saratoga there are several 
of these fountains of less note, situated both in 
transition and secondary formations. At Saratoga 
they are more numerous and diversified in their 
sensible qualities than at any other place. They 
discover themselves in great numbers for the dis- 
tance of more than a mile along the valley, in 
marl, which rests on secondary limestone. They 
occur again in the south-east part of the old town 
of Saratoga, at a place called the Quaker Springs. 

* Analysis of the mineral waters of Saratoga and Ballston. 
36 



422 . MINERAL SPRINGS OF NEW YORK. 

The rock formation at this place is transition 
slate." 

Professor Mather regards these springs as being 
on, or near the junction of limestone with a talcy 
slatOj and that they are adjacent to faults in the 
strata, or where the strata are greatly deranged 
in position. All these springs are slightly thermal 
when compared with the temperature of the earth 
from which they arise. Professor M. thinks it 
probable that similar springs may be found along 
the great line of disturbance in other parts of 
New York, as well as in Vermont and Massachu- 
setts. The great Apalachian chain of geological 
U23heavings, extending almost through the centre 
of Virginia, and furnishing such an extensive series 
of thermal and medicated waters, is probably on 
the same or a parallel axis with that which gives 
the famous waters of Saratoga and Ballston. 

The fact that the various springs of Saratoga 
and Ballston, hold in solution essentially the 
same ingredients, and differ from each other only 
in the quantity of ingredients common to all, goes 
to show that they derive their distinctive qualities 
from one common source ; but are modified to 
some extent in their passage to the surface of the 
earth by the peculiar character of the different 
strata through which they have passed. 

^^If," says Dr, Bell,* ^'we admit the correct- 

" Mineral and Thermal waters of the United States and Canada 



SARATOGA AXD BALLSTON. 423 

ness of Dr. Daubeny's observation , that tlie tem- 
perature of tlie water of the Congress spring at 
Saratoga, 51° Fah., is three or four degrees above 
the mean temperature of the earth at this place, 
we can give credence to the opinion of the thermal 
origin of the water, and of the mode of extrication 
of the /carbonic acid so largely found ; it being 
brought about by subterranean heat acting on 
limestone rocks. The first process would consist 
of the junction of carbonic acid coming through 
the clefts and small canals, with the meteoric water 
which had reached its greatest depth, and was 
beginning to rise in larger canals. The second 
process would be the decomposition and solution 
of portions of certain rocks, and the formation of 
acidulous springs, rich in carbonic acid and carbon- 
ates. The same heat Avhich would drive off car- 
bonic acid from limestone, would readily raise the 
temperature of the meteoric water which fi.nds its 
way into the interior of the earth, and we should 
then have thermal,- — warm and hot springs. 
Reasoning in this way, we can easily adopt the 
views of those who maintain that carbonated and 
thermal springs are similar in their mineral, and 
still more in their geological position, and seem 
to be plainly refera-ble to the same system of 
causes." 

Admitting the correctness of the supposition that 
subterranean heat may be sufficient to eliminate 
carbonic acid from limestoue, and so to heat meteoric 



424 MINERAL SPRINGS OP NEW YORK. 

water in the "bowels of the earth as to return it to 
the surface in the form of hot and warm springs ; a 
question for the curious still remains to he mooted. 
Is this suhterranean heat volcaniCj and conse- 
quently local, or is it from the great ^^ central 
heat" of the earth, contended for hy Mr. Dauheny 
and others? Many geological appearances in the 
regions in which we iind thermal waters, not to 
mention the extensive upheavings and displace- 
ment of strata -generally found in the neighhor- 
hood of such springs, lend some countenance to 
the volcanic origin of siich waters. On the other 
hand, the theory of the central heat -of the earth, 
which alleges that the earth's heat increases ahout 
one degree for every hundred feet we descend in it, 
while it has been occasionally sustained hy deep 
artesian borings, has on the other hand been so 
often refuted by such borings, that it seems unsafe, 
in the absence of more conclusive proof, to adopt 
it as a fixed and well determined fact, 

CONGRESS SPRING. 

The following is the analysis of the Congress 
water, as made by Dr. Steel :— 

He states that the temperature of the water is 
50°. Dr. Daubeny marks it at 51° Fah. 

Both its temperature and quantity is said to be 
the same at all seasons. 



SARATOGA AXD BALLSTON. 425 

One gallon of the water yields : — 

Cliloride of sodium 385-0 

Hydriodate of soda 3-5 

Carbonate of soda ^ 

Bi-Carbonate of soda 8-982 

Carbonate of magnesia 

Bi-Carbonate of magnesia 95-788 

Carbonate of lime 98-098 

Carbonate of iron ; 5-075 

Silica 1'5 

H^^lrobromate of potassa^ ..;.; a trace. 

597-943 
Gaseous contents : — 

Carbonic acid 311 cubic inches. 

Atmospheric air .......; 7 " 

318 

Dr. Chilton's examinations of this water, as 
given by Dr. North, differs somewhat from the 
above. He found a minute portion of alum, 
sulphate of soda, iodide of sodium, and bromide 
of potassium, to the amount of 5'920 grains to 
the gallon of water. According to his estimates 
the solid and gaseous contents of the water, in one 
gallon, is as follows :— 

Solid contents 543-998 grains. 

Carbonic acid 284-6o> atmospheric air 5-41=290-06 cubic inches. 

Iodine was first discovered in these waters in 
1828, and was announced in the American Journal 
3G* 



426 MINERAL SPRINGS OF NEW YORK. 

of Science in 1829. In 1830, Mr. A. A. Hays 
detected bromine and potash in the water. The 
quantity of these ingredients is, however, very 
small, and to detect them with certainty it is 
necessary to operate on a large quantity. 

PuTNUM Spring. —This spring, hearing the 
name of its proprietor, is regarded as the richest 
chalybeate in the Saratoga group. It is reported 
as containing 7 grains of the carbonate of iron to 
the gallon, in addition to the salts common to it 
and the other springs. This, comparatively, is a 
heavy chalybeate impregnation. The famous 
Pyrment Spring, in Westphalia, that enjoys, per- 
haps, the largest European reputation as an iron 
tonic, contains, agreeably to the analysis of M. 
Westrum, but SJ grains of iron to the gallon ; 
while the celebrated Powliow^ at Spa^ in Belgium, 
little if any less distinguished as a chalybeate 
tonic, contains but 5 "24: of iron to the gallon, 
according to the analysis of the celebrated Berg- 
mann. 

Pavillion Spring.— The saline contents of the 
water of this Spring is less than the Congress, 
being 311*71 grains in the gallon. It, however, 
exceeds the latter in the proportion of its carbonic 
acid, of which it has 359*05 cubic inches to the 
gallon. This Spring is near the Columbian Hotel, 
and not far from the centre of the town. 

Union Spring. — By Dr. Chilton's analysis, the 



SARATOGA AND BALLSTON. 427 

water of this spring is shovfn to contain 392-907 
grains of solid contents in the gallon. Its amount 
of carbonic acid is somewhat less than is found in 
the Pavillion, being 344' 16 cubic inches in the 
gallon of water. This spring is in the eastern 
part of the town, and not far from the road leading 
to Schuylerville. 

High Kock. — This Spring, with its conical en- 
closure of calcareous tufa, evidently the deposit of 
its own waters, deserves to be regarded among the 
interesting curiosities of our country. The ven- 
erable Dr. Seaman remarks, in reference to it, 
that if it *^had been upon the borders of the 
Lago d'Agnano, the noted Grotto del Cani, which 
burthens almost every book which treats upon the 
carbonic acid gas since the peculiar properties of 
that air have been known, would never have been 
heard of beyond the environs of Naples, while 
this fountain, in its place, would have been de- 
servedly celebrated in story, and spread upon 
canvass, to the admiration of the world, as one of 
its greatest curiosities." 

This unique paramedial structure is composed 
of the carbonate of lime and magnesia, with the 
oxide of iron, and a portion of sand and clay. 
When broken, it is said to exhi})it the impression 
of leaves and twigs of trees. Its circumference 
at its base is about 26 feet, and perpendicular 
height four feet. From the top of the rock to 



428 MINERAL SPRIKaS OF NEW YORK. 

the surface of the water, two feet ; depth of water 
in the cavity of the rock about seven and a-half 
feet. The hole at the top of the rock through 
which the water is dipped is circular, and measures 
about ten inches across. 

As early as 1767, this spring was visited by Mr. 
Wm. Johnson, who used its waters with benefit 
for gout, and from this period it came rapidly 
into the notice and regard of the colonists." In 
the year 1784 and 1785 some accommodations 
were constructed for invalids, and about this 
period, the springs known as Flat Kock, the Presi- 
dent, and Ked Spring, first attracted attention. 

Dr. Steel, to whose '^Analysis" I am indebted 
for this history, remarks, that " the extravagant 
stories told by the first settlers of the astonishing 
effects of the '^ High Kock " waters, in the cure 
of almost every s[-ecies of disease, are still remem- 
bered, and repeated by their too credulous de- 
scendants. This, in connection with the singular 
and mysterious character of the rock, continued 
to attach an importance to the waters, in the eyes 
of the vulgar, to Avhich no other fountain will 
ever attain." 

The temperature of the High Rock water is 48°. 
Its specific gravity, 1006'85, when the barometer 
stood at 29 '05 inches — pure water being 1000. 
Analysis shows that it contains 345*68 grains of 
solid ingredients, and 309 cubic inches of gaseous 



SARATOGA AND BALLSTON. 429 

contents^ to the gallon of water. Eacli gallon 
holds in solution 5*58 grains of carbonate of 
iron. 

The Iodine, or as it is sometimes called Walton 
Spring y contains, according to the examinations of 
Professor Emmons, 3*5 of hydriodate of soda to the 
gallon of water. Its saline ingredients do not differ 
essentially from the neighboring fountains. Its 
chalybeate impregnation is somewhat greater than 
the water of the Congress Spring, but less than 
that of the- Putnum, Union, Pavillion, and 
others. 

Its temperature is rendered at 4*7° Fahrenheit. 

The Flat Roch, Hamilton^ Columbian, and 
Washington Springs, of which Dr. Steel gives the 
analysis, very nearly resemble each other, and 
those already described, in their general saline 
and gaseous character. The Flat Rock contains 
5'39 grains of the carbonate of iron to the gallon ; 
the Hamilton 5 '39, the Columbian 5 '58, and the 
Washington 3*25. 

Empire Spring. — This fountain is now attract- 
ing considerable attention. The relatively larger 
portion of iodine, and smaller portions of iron 
and earthy salts, contained in this water, in com- 
parison with its neighboring springs, suggests to 
the medical mind a preference for it in the treat- 
ment of several forrq.idable chronic affections. 



430 MINERAL SPRINGS OF NEW YORK. 

The following is Professor Emmons' analysis of 
one .gallon of the water : — 

Chloride of sodium 269-696 

Bi-carbonate of lime 141 "824 

Bi-carbonate of magnesia ... 41984 

Bi-carbonate of soda 30'848 

Hydriodate of soda or iodine , 12-000 

Bi-carbonate of iron a trace. 

496-352 

Specific gravity 1039. 

BALLSTOK SPRINGS. 

The village of Ballston is situated seven miles 
southwest from Saratoga. It derives its name 
from the Rev. Eliphalet Ball, who, with a number 
of his congregation, settled near the site of the 
village at the time the springs were first dis- 
covered. 

The mineral springs are situated in a deep 
marshy valley, through which passes a branch of 
the Kayaderosseras Creek. They were discovered 
in 1769. 

Of the springs composing the Ballston group 
of acidulous chalybeate waters, the following may 
be mentioned — the Sans Souci, Parh, Low's Well, 
the United States, and Fulton Chalybeate. Dr, 
Steel remarks that these waters evidently belong 
to the same class with those at Saratoga ; and if 
they do not contain so large a portion of the saline 
properties as some of the fountains at the latter 



SARATOaA AND BALLSTON. 431 

place, wliich. is very manifestj both from the taste 
and the effects, they are, unquestionably, entitled 
to rank among the best acidulous chalybeate waters 
which this or any other country affords. 

In addition to the acidulous saline chalybeate 
waters of Ballston Spa, there are several sulphur- 
ous springs in the neighborhood, not regarded 
however, as very strong, which probably owe 
their peculiar character to the decomposition of 
the sulphuret of iron which abounds in the argil- 
laceous slate formation common to this region. 

Sa7is Souci Spring contains, by analysis, in one 
gallon of its water : — 

Chloride of sodium 143-733 grains. 

Bi-carbonate of soda 12'66 " 

Bi-carbonate of magnesia 39'01 " 

Carbonate of lime 43-407 " 

Carbonate of iron 5-95 " 

Hydriodate of soda 1-3 " 

Silex...., 1- 

247-15 

The waters oi Low's Well are regarded as being 
almost identical with those of the Sans Souci. 

In the waters of the Park Well, Dr. Steel 
demonstrated the existence of 6^ grains of the 
carbonate of iron in a gallon of the water ; a 
somewhat larger quantity than is found in any of 
the other fountains. 

The United States Spring, according to Dr. 



432 MINERAL SPRINGS OP NEW YORK. 

Beck's aiialysiSj contains in oue pint of the 
water : — • 

Chloride of sodium 53"12 grains. 

Carbonate of soda • S'll 

Carbonate of magnesia 0-72 

Carbonate of lime with a little oxide of iron. 3"65 

Sulphate of soda 0-22 

Silica 1-00 

60.82 
Carbonic acid, 30*50. 
Temperature, 50° F., which does not vary through the year. 

It will be seen by comparing the analysis of this 
with the Congress Springy that the latter contains 
a much larger amount, both of solid and gaseous 
contents, than the former. 



SARATOGA WATERS — IMPROPER USES. 433 



CHAPTER XXXIV. 

NEW YORK MINERAL WATERS CONTINUED. 

Improper Uses of tJis Saratoga Waters and its Evils — Injurious 
Advice and Errors of Opinion as to tJie Mature and Use of 
Mineral Waters — Diseases for icliich the Saratoga Waters may 
be Prescnbed — Albany Artesian Mineral Well — Reed's Mineral 
Spring — Halleck's Spring^ dr., &c. 

It is well remarked Ly Dr. Steel, long the resi- 
dent physician at Saratoga,"^ that ^' these waters 
are so generally used, and their effects so seldom 
injurious,, particularly to persons in health, that 
almost every one who has ever drank of them, 
assumes the prerogative of directing their use to 
others ; and, were these directions always the 
result of experience and ohservation, they cer- 
tainly would he less ohjectionahle ; hut there are 
numerous persons that flock ahout the springs 
during the drinking season, without any know- 
ledge of the composition of the waters, and little 
or none of their effects, who continue to dispose of 
their directions to the ignorant and unwary, with 
no other effect than to injure the reputation of the 
water and destroy the prospects of the diseased. 

* Analysis of the Mineral Waters of Saratoga and BaUston. 
37 



434 NEW YORK MINERAL WATERS CONTINUED. 

^' Many persons who resort to the springs for the 
restoration of health, seem to be governed by the 
idea that they are to recover in proportion to the 
amount they drink ; and, although many who are 
in health may, and frequently do, swallow down 
enormous amounts of the water with apparent 
impunity, it does not follow that those whose 
stomachs are enfeebled by disease can take the same 
quantity with the same effect. Stomachs of this 
description frequently reject large portions of the 
water, and thereby protect the system from the 
disastrous consequences that would otherwise 
follow. But when it happens to be retained, the 
result is indeed distressing. The pulse becomes 
quick and feeble, the extremities cold, the head 
painful and dizzy^ the bowels swollen and tender, 
and the whole train of nervous affections alarm- 
ingly increased ; and should the unfortunate suf- 
ferer survive the effects of his imprudence, it is 
only to a renewal of his worst apprehensions, from 
a loss of confidence in what he most probably con- 
sidered a last resort.'' 

The above sensible remarks of a gentleman 
long accustomed to prescribing mineral waters^ 
and entirely familiar with their potent influences 
for good when properly used, or for evil, when 
improperly employed, commend themselves with 
great force to invalids generally, who resort to 
mineral fountains for relief. 

The injury done to invalids at mineral springs 



SARATOGA WATEBS — IJMPROPER USES. 435 

by hasty and well-intentioned, but ignorant and 
injudicious advice, both as to the applicabilities 
of the waters, and the method of using them by 
persons they may chance to meet, can scarcely 
be overrated. Various instances have occurred of 
invalids being speedily destroyed by improperly 
using mineral waters, under the injudicious 
advice of ignorant and officious persons, and still 
more frequently have diseases been aggravated and 
confirmed through such reprehensible officious- 
ness, that^ might have been cured under sensible 
and judicious instructions. Besides the idea that 
is often spontaneously in the mind of the invalid 
that it is ^' only water " he is drinking, and that 
it can do no harm if it does no good, is simply an 
imposition on his own good sense, and upon the 
feeblest powers of ratiocination. These impres- 
sions upon the mind, vague though they may be, 
are nevertheless, occasionally sufficiently strong 
to control the action. Such views are most apt 
to find a lodgment in the minds of those who 
have decided to altogether repudiate medicine, 
commonly so called, and to seek their lost health 
by the use of mineral ^vaters, not remembering 
that mineral waters are medicines, and could be 
of no service if they were not. Under the false 
impression of their non-medicinal nature, such 
persons will often take into their stomachs in the 
form of draught after draught of sulphur waters, 
more medicinal material in one day, than a judi- 



436 NEW YOEK MINERAL AVATERS CONTINUED. 

cious pliysician would give them in pill or potion, 
in an entire week. 

It was such persistent ahuse of mineral waters 
on the Continentj that induced Henry TV of France 
to decree a royal edict, that no person should 
enter upon the use of a mineral water in his 
dominion, until his case had heen professionally 
examined, and the suitableness and manner of 
using the water prescribed. 

When Americans shall have acquired more 
prudence upon this subject, and learned to inquire 
more carefully into the adaptedness of mineral 
waters to their diseases, before committing them- 
selves to their use, far more good will be derived 
by the invalid ; our mineral waters will be appre- 
ciated, and their character better established in 
public confidence. 

DISEASES FOR WHICH THE SARATOGA WATERS 
MAY BE PRESCRIBED. 

In reference to the proper manner of using the 
Saratoga waters, as well as to the diseases for 
which they may be prescribed, I shall confine my 
remarks to a few general observations having refer- 
ence to the usual proper use of such agents, 
knowing that particular directions for the indi- 
vidual case can be most prudently and safely given 
to the patient by experienced practitioners resident 
at the springs ; and after such careful personal 
investigation of the case, and with such discrim- 



DISEASES — GENERAL OBSERVATIOKS. 437 

inating views of its pathology as personal exam- 
ination can alone, in most cases, satisfactorily 
detei'mine. 

The entire group of the Saratoga and Ballston 
waters may properly be regarded, as I have before 
stated, as distinctly belonging to the saline acidu- 
lous class, with chalybeate salts so prominent in 
some of them as to modify, in an important 
degree, their influence upon the animal econom3^ 
Their prominent therapeutic efl'ects are those of 
active aperient and diuretic action. 

A numerous class of visitors at Mineral Springs 
are those who are rather threatened with, than 
actually laboring under a distinctly located disease. 
As prominent in this class of visitors^ we find 
those who suffer under a preternatural fullness of 
the blood vessels, and especially of the veins, with 
a tendency to congestion in some of the large 
internal organs, with a sense of fullness or heavi- 
ness in the abdominal regions. This condition is 
often occasioned from slow and imperfect digestion, 
and, consequently^ by too long retention of food 
in the stomach, from local and general accumula- 
tions in the large intestines, and not uncommonly 
from an engorged liver, or spleen, with a sluggish 
circulation, and sometimes a throbbing sensation 
in the portal system. This morbid state of the 
system is made to bear different names as one or 
another organ seems to be more especially affected. 

The morbid tendencies of this condition are 
37* 



438 NEW YOEK MINERAL WATERS CONTINUED. 

very numerous. Even in its incipiency it is prone, 
from hygenic or morbid causes to run into ob- 
stinate congestions, irritations, or actual inflam- 
mations. Sometimes it results in cephalic or 
pectoral accumulations, giving occasion for apo- 
plexy, asthma, &c., &c. In other cases, the 
system seems to make a violent external effort 
to relieve its internal oppressions through an 
acute attack of rheumatism, or gout ; or By erup- 
tions upon the surface, carbuncles, boils, or 
erysipelatous inflammations. The most common 
winding up of this general plethoric condition is 
a confirmed dyspepsia, attended with faulty and 
irregular secretions from the liver, ultimately 
giving rise to intestinal or thoracic neuralgia. 

Space will not allow me to trace out the various 
and multiform disorders and disorganizations, 
that may, and often do result from the venous 
plethora and abdominal accumulations alluded 
to ; nor is this, perhaps, the proper place to do 
so. I remark, however, that, in the condition of 
the system alluded to, and especially in its early 
stages, the Saratoga waters, and of choice, the 
more purgative of them, affords a remedy entitled 
to great confidence, and, generally, speedily bene- 
ficial in its effects. 

In such cases they should be so used as to pro- 
duce copious evacuations from the bowels for two 
or three weeks. The more purgative waters, 
such as the Congress Spring, being taken early in 



DISEASES — GENERAL OBSERVATIONS. 439 

the morning to produce this effect, the patient 
may^ with advantage, use small quantities of some 
of the more ferruginated waters in the evening, 
such as the Putnam, or High Kock Spring. 

In recent attacks of hiliary affections, unat- 
tended with fever or general excitement, the 
Congress waters have proved very heneficial. In 
such cases, Dr. Steel, long a resident physician 
at the springs, says he was in the hahit of giving 
a few grains of calomel or hlue pill at night, and 
following it in the morning with a sufficient 
quantity of water to move the howels hriskly two 
or three times. A few doses of this description 
usually puts the howels in a situation to be more 
easily acted upon hy the water alone. In the 
more advanced stage of bilious affections, says Dr. 
Steel, '^ where the organization of the liver 
and other viscera have materially suffered, and 
the disposition to general liydi^ops, indicated 
hy the enlargement of the extremities, fullness of 
the abdomen, &c., the waters are, all of them, 
manifestly injurious, and ought not to be admitted, 
even as an adjunctive remedy." 

In the various dyspeptic depravities these waters^ 
have long maintained a high and well deserved 
reputation. The Congress Spring is most gen- 
erally used for these affections. It is best taken 
in the morning for such cases, about an hour 
before breakfast, in sufficient quantity to move 
the bowels gently once or twice. For this pur- 



440 NEW YORK MINERAL WATERS CONTINUED. 

pose, from two to four or five tumblers full, taken 
at intervals of ten or fifteen minutes apart, will 
generally be sufficient. 

In calculous or nephritic complaints, tbese waters 
have been long employed with great advantage, 
and well attested instances are given of their 
effecting complete cures in such cases. The 
water, in such diseases, should be so drunk as to 
keep the bowels gently open and to keep up an 
increased secretion from the kidneys. In such 
cases, the use of the warm bath is an important 
auxiliary. Its temperature should be about 100° 
Fah., and the patient remain in it from thirty to 
sixty minutes. 

In clironic rlieumatism. Dr. Steel asserts that the 
waters have been long employed with advantage. 
In such cases, he gives preference to the Congress 
Spring. 

For antJiritis or gout, the waters are regarded as 
an uncertain remedy. In the early or forming 
stages of the disorder they may prove beneficial, 
but when the disease has become confirmed, and 
is of long continuance, the effects of the water are 
doubtful, and cases have occurred where their use 
induced a recurrence of the paroxysm. 

In ill conditioned idcers and cutaneous eruptions, 
as well as in the enfeebled condition of the system 
following a protracted mercurial course, the use of 
the waters has proved very beneficial. 

Scrofida is another disease in which the Sara- 



DISEASES — GENERAL OBSERVATIONS. 4.41 

toga waters- have been often nseclj and Dr. {Steel 
remarks, that ^' experience a^bunclautly sanctions 
the belief of their utility in that complaint." 

The large proportion of iodine which Professor 
Emmons detects in the Empire Spring, seems 
clearly to indicate a preference for that fountain 
in the treatment of this class of affections. 

In dropsical affections the Saratoga waters should 
only he prescribed under careful discrimination. 
When the disease depends upon long continued 
organic derangement, they will prove injurious. 
On the other hand, wlien the affection is recent, 
and dependent upon the want of sufficient action 
in the absorbent vessels, they will be beneficial, 
and their use in such cases will probably result in 
removing the morbid accumulations. 

Paralysis, under the active purgative operation 
of the waters, is sometimes benefited. 

Clilorosis and other complaints peculiar to 
females, are often treated by these waters with 
good success. In such cases, the waters in which 
the tonic properties most abound are to be pre- 
ferred, and much advantage will generally be 
derived by frequent bathing, and pleasurable 
exercise unconnected with exhaustion or fatigue. 

In iDlitMsical complaints that arise from a primary 
affection of the lungs, the Saratoga waters are 
injurious, and ought not to be used. But in con- 
gestions of the bronchial surfaces, as well as in 
translated or sympatheti#.affections from abdomi- 



442 NE^V YORK MINERAL WATERS CONTINUED. 

nal origin making a lodgment in the cliest, and 
unattended with any general strumous tendency, 
the waters of the Empire Spring might, probably, 
be safely and advantageously employed. 

Albany Artesian Mineral Wells.— Messrs. Boyd 
and McGullock, in boring for pure water to supply 
their brewery, struck at the depth of four hundred 
and eighty feet, a saline water abounding in the 
carbonates and carbonic acid, and emitting at the 
same time carburetted hydrogen or burning gas. 
On continuing the boring to the depth of six 
hundred feet the flow of the carbonated water and 
gas continued. Another boring was effected to 
the same depth, a few rods from the first, with the 
same results and the singular addition of the 
escape of sulphuretted hydrogen gas from a small 
stream of water that was struck at thirty feet 
below the surface. From this. Dr. Beck con- 
cludes, that " in the same slate formation, though 
at different depths, sulphuretted hydrogen, car- 
buretted hydrogen, and carbonic acid gases, are 
abundantly evolved." The same writer thinks it 
probable that carbonated w^aters might be found 
by boring at any point on the range from Saratoga 
to Albany. 

The temperature of the water of the Albany 
well is 51° to 52° Fah. Its specific gravity 
1-00900. 



reed's and halleck's springs. 443 

Dr. Beck's analysis of one pint of water, sliows 
the following results : — 

Chloride of sodium o9'00 grains.- 

Carbonate of soda 500 

Carbonate of lime ^... 4-00 

Carbonate of magnesia 1*50 

Carbonate of iron, with a little silica 1-00 

Chloride of calcium O'oO 

71-00 
Gaseous contents, 28 cubic inches. 

Eeed's Mineral Spring. — In Washington County 
is an acidulous spring, not very dissimilar from 
the waters of Saratoga, but containing less gas, 
and consequently less sparkling. Its taste is 
somewhat acidulous. 

Halleck's Spring, in Oneida 'County, and near 
the village of Hampton, was discovered by boring 
to the depth of one hundred and six feet into a 
solid rock. 

Professor >Toyes analyzed this water, and 
obtained from one pint the following results : — 

Chloride of sodiimi 78"00 grains. 

Chloride of calcium 13-00 " 

Chloride of magnesia , 4-00 " 

Sulphate of lime 500 " 



100-00 



. This spring is said to evolve carburetted or 
burning gas in considerable quantities, with a 



444 NEW YORK SULPHUR SPRINGS. 

small proportion of carbonic acid. It would seem 
from the composition of its waters to belong to 
tbe class of weak brine or salt springs. 

Near Catskill, in G-reen County, and in Kenssael- 
lear County, a mile from the village of Sandlake, 
strong chalybeate springs are found. 

Other springs of the same character are found 
in Delaware, Duchess, and Columbia Counties-. 



CHAPTEE XXXV. 

NEW YORK SULPHUR SPRINGS. 

Sharron Springs — Awn Springs. 

Waters to some extent impregnated with 
sulphur exist in almost every great section of the 
State of I^ew York ; but few of these springs, 
however, have been extensively improved for 
public use, or are so strongly charged with gas 
and rich in solid medicinal materials, as to make 
them objects of more than local interest. There 
are, however, several strong exceptions to this 
general remark, and especially the waters of the 



XEW YORK SULPHUR SPRINGS . 445 

Sharron and Avon Springs, whicli have acquired 
quite an extended reputation. 

As is found to he the case in Virginia, thq 
sulphur springs of Kew York are generally on, or 
not very remote, from the lines of fracture or dis- 
turhance in the strata of the earth from subterra- 
nean causes. The Sharron, is said to he the 
strongest exception to this general law of their 
location. 

Mr. Hall, who made a geological survey of a 
portion of this State, remarks that springs wdiich 
issue from different classes of rock, are marked by 
a general character and aspect which indicate 
their relative geological positions. '^Mn the strata 
of the Niagara group, the water has usually a dark 
appearance in the spring, though it is limpid and 
differs essentially from the waters of the salt 
group, while in higher rocks it is not only less 
copious, but it is often marked by a black and red 
deposit, as well as sometimes a whitish stain upon 
the rock or at the bottom of the spring," These 
springs, however widely separated, have been 
observed to have a temperature somewhat above 
the common springs of their neighborhood. The 
same fact has been observed in reference to the 
sulphurous springs so abundantly found in Vir- 
ginia, going to show a common cause for the 
general thermalization of such waters. 



446 NEW YORK SULPHUR SPRINGS. 



SHARRON SPRINGS. 

These springs are in the County of Schoharie, 
and near the village of Leesville. According to 
Dr. Beckj they arise from pyrituous slates, under- 
lying strata of Helderberg limestone. 

The two springs most noted, are called ^' White 
Sulphur and ^ ' Ifagnesia ." 

The White Sulphur has been analyzed by Dr. 
J. K. Chilton, of the city of New Yark, who 
obtained the following results from one pint of 
the water : — 

Sulphate of magnesia .2-65 grains. 

Sulphate of lime 6-98 " 

Chloride of sodium 0*14 " 

Chloride of magnesium , 0.15 " 

Hydro- Sulphuret of sodium ) ^.^. ,< 

Hydro-Sulphuret of calcium > 

10-06 
Sulphuretted hydrogen gas one cubic inch. 

Dr. Beck remarks, ^^that Sulphate of lime in 
small fresh perfect chrystals, is found near the 
springs in considerable abundance." 

Dr. Bell, remarks after quoting the analysis 
given above, that the ^^ solid contents of a 
gallon of this water,* as determined by the same 
chemist are 160*94 grains, and the amount of 
sulphuretted hydrogen gas 16 inches. The results 

* Mineral and Thermal Springs. 



SHARKON SPRINGS. 447 

as reported "by Dr. Nortlij are at variance with 
the preceding table of reduction to a pint made 
hj Dr. Beckj still from Dr. Chilton's analysis." 

The Magnesia Spring, according to the analysis 
of Professor Keedj of New York, contains the 
following ingredients in one gallon of water : — 

Bi-Carbonate of magnesia 30'5 grains. 

Sulphate oCmagnesia 22'7 " 

Sulphate of lime , 76-0 " 

Hydro-Sulpliates of magnesia and lime 0-5 " 

Chloride of sodium and magnesium 3-0 " 

132-7 
Sulphuretted hydrogen gas 3*3 inches. 

In looking to the relative character of the 
Sharron waters, we find them most to resemble 
the Avon Springs of New York, and the White 
Sulphur Springs of Virginia, and in a general way 
they will be found adapted to the same class 
of diseases for which the latter waters are bene- 
ficially used. 

The hotel accommodations for visitors at Sharron 
are represented as extensive and agreeable, with 
pleasant promenades through well shaded wood 
lands contiguous to the spring, and the enjoyment 
of extensive and interesting views of the surround- 
ing country. 

Travellers to Sharron either from the north, 
eastj or south, should make Albany a point where 



448 NEW YORK SULPHUR SPRINGS. 

they take the Binghampton Kailroad to Palantine 
Bridge, and thence by stage coaches over the 
mountains to the springs 

AVON SPRINGS. 

These Springs are situated in the western part 
of the State, on the eastern branch of the Genesee 
Biver, and near the village of Avon„ They are 
about eighteen miles from the city of Eochester, 
and twenty-four from Canandiagua! They are 
connected with Kochester by a daily line of stage 
coaches. The Genesee Valley canal boats, also 
land passengers within nine or ten miles of the 
springs, whence they are conveyed in coaches to 
their destination. 

The Indians of that region, it is said, knew of, 
and appreciated these springs as '^medicine water," 
many years ago. The first recorded use of them 
by the white settlers, was in 1792, when they 
were successfully used for a cutaneous affection. 
In 1795 we hear of their curing rheumatism of long 
standing, that had resisted successfully the skill 
of intelligent physicians. The accommodations 
at and near the springs, are very good, and suffi- 
ciently extensive for a large number of visitors. 
These consist of three hotels near the springs, and 
two at the village of Avon, from which a connec- 
tion is kept up with the springs by omnibusses. 

There were but two springs known at Avon 
until the year 1835, and these were designated as 
the Uvper and Loiver Springs. About that time, 



AVON SPKINGS. 449 

a new one was discoveredj wliich is known as the 
Neio Bath Spring. This new fountain is said to 
be thirty feet deep, the water in it rising through 
a calciferous slate. 

An analysis of one pint of the water of this 
spring yields the following results : — 

Carbonate of lime 3-37 grains. 

Sulphate of lime 0*44 " 

Sulpliate of magnesia I'Ol " 

Sulphate of soda 4-84 " 

Chloride of sodium. 0*71 " 

10-37 
Sulphuretted hydrogen 3-91 cubic inches. 
Temperature of the water 50° Fah., specific gravity 1-00356. 

The Upper J or as it is now called the lliddle 
Spring, is about one hundred and fifty yards from 
the one just described. Its temperature is 51° 
Fahrenheit. 

An analysis of one pint of the water, according 
to the investigations of Professor Hadley, shows 
the following results : — 

Carbonate of lime I'OO grains. 

Sulphate of lime lO'SO " 

Sulphate of magnesia 1-25 " 

Sulphate of soda 2-00 " 

Cliloride of sodium 2-30 " 

17-05 

Sulphuretted hydrogen , 12-00 '* 

Carbonic acid 5-60 " 

17-60 
88* ■ 



450 NEW YOEE SULPHtJn SPRINGS. 

The Neiv Spring, Dr. Salsbiiry states, was 
formerly a large pool some fifty feet in diameter, 
and served as a bathing place for the early in- 
habitants. It has been more prized as a curative 
agent than the others, and is more largely resorted 
to. 

In one pint of this water Dr. J. K. Chilton 
found : — 

Carbonate of lime 3-58 grains. 

Chloride of calcium .......I'OS " 

Sulphate of lime r ....7'17 " 

Sulphate of magnesia 6"21 " 

Sulphate of soda 1-71 " 

19-72 
Of gaseous contents : — 

Sulphate hydrogen 1-33 '' 

Carbonic acid -. 0*50 " 

Nitrogen 0-67 " 

And and a minute fraction of Atmospheric air. 

This is a uniform, and very bold spring, dis- 
charging at every season of the year about fifty- 
four gallons a minute. Its temperature is 45° to 
47° Fah., and its specific gravity 1-0018. Its 
taste, while decidedly sulphurous, is slightly 
bitter and saline. 

It will be observed that this water contains less 
sulphuretted hydrogen, and more solid contents, 
especially of the purging salts, than the Upper 
or Middle Spring. 



AVON SPRINGES. 451 

In addition to the springs enumerated, tliere 
are three others, called Iodine, or Sylvan Springs, 
about two miles from the Lower Spring. In these 
the chloride of sodium strongly predominates, and 
hence their saltish taste. One of them has but a 
slight sulphurous impregna^tion, and somewhat 
resembles in taste the Congress water after its gas 
has escaped. We have an analysis of one of these 
springs which shows it to contain iodide of sodium, 
with heavy impregnations of the chlorides of 
sodium and magnesium, and the sulphate of lime. 

In one gallon of the water of this spring. Dr. 
J. E. Chilton found the following ingredients : 

Chloride of magnesium 62-400 grains 

of soclimn 97-440 

Sulphate of lime 80-436 " 

Carbonate of magnesia 15-974 " 

of lime 26-800 

Vegetable matter -240 " 

Iodide of sodium 

296-240 

Sulphuretted hydrogen 20-684 cubic inches. 

Carbonic acid 4-992 " 



25-676 



COMPOSITION AND MEDICINAL EMPLOYjVIENT 
OF THE AVON WATERS. 

It will be perceived that the analysis of the 
four Avon springs show a difference in the com- 



452 NEW YORK SULPHUR SPRINGS. 

ponent parts of their solid conteDts not unworthy 
of the notice of the invalid, or the physician in 
prescribing their use. While the New Bath 
Spring shows only about 30 grains to the gallon, of 
the several preparations of sulphate, carbonate 
and chloride of lime, the Iodine or Sylvian Spring 
exhibits upwards of 120 grains of the same 
materials to the gallon ; the Loiver Spring has 
about 94, and the Upper about 92 grains in the 
same quantity of water. In the more important 
articles of sulphate of magnesia and sulphate of 
soda, the difference is not quite so great, but still 
enough to be worthy of note. While the Middle 
or Tipper Spring shows of these last mentioned 
materials, about 26 grains to the gallon, the Loiver 
has 63, and the New Bath Spring 45 grains. The 
Iodine or Sylvian is entirely destitute of the 
sulphate of soda, and shov/s but 13 grains to the 
gallon of the sulphate of magnesia. 

In comparing the waters of these springs with 
the waters of the White Sulphur, in Virginia, it 
will be observed that the former contains an appre- 
ciable larger quantity of lime than the Virginia 
springs, and that their sulphate of soda and sul- 
phate of magnesia, is somewhat in excess of the 
Virginia waters. The chloride of sodium, ex- 
isting so largely in the Iodine or Sylvian Spring, 
and to an appreciable extent, in the Lower and 
New Spring, is discovered only in the very 
minute portion of about half a grain to the gallon 
in the Virginia White Sulphur. 



AVON WATEKS— MEDICINAL EMPLOYMENT. 453 

There are several articles, probablv not of great 
value in the amount in which they exist, that are 
not common to these great Northern and Southern 
waters. The Virginia White Sulphur, contains 
the proto- sulphate of iron and the sulphate of 
alumina, and, especially, an azotized organic 
matter blended with a large proportion of sulphur. 
These are not found in the Avon waters. To the 
action of this azotized organic matter, as found in 
the White Sulphur, Professor Hays attributes 
much of the medicinal activity of that water, and 
experiments have clearly shown, that it rapidly 
generates sulphuretted hydrogen when freed from 
the water and slightly heated, and that it is the 
cause of the secondary formation of hydro- 
sulphuric acid in the stomach when the water has 
been drunk entirely deprived of its gas.* But 
w^hile these differences exist between the New 
York and Virginia waters, they are, nevertheless, 
sufficiently alike in their composition and general 
character to adapt them to the same general class 
of diseases, and having in my treatise on the White 
Sulphur fully, noticed the therapeutical character 
and adaptations of that water, and at considerable 
length detailed the diseases and states of the system 
in which it may, or may not be, employed, I deem 
it unnecessary to enlarge much upon the applica- 
bilities of such waters in this place. 



■^ See Cliapter VI, on tlie- Eelative Influence of tlie Gaseous 
and Saline Contents of tlie White Sulphur Water. 



454 NEW YORK SULPHUR SPRINGS. 

Many peculiar operative effects of these waters, 
as noticed by Dr. Salsbury in his valuable little 
work on the Avon Springs, are strikingly the 
same that I noticed in this Snd the early editions 
of my work as distinguishing the operations of 
the White Sulphur waters. Among the most 
striking of these are the facts noticed by Dr. S. 
of the similarity of the action of these waters and 
that of calomel ; and, that they sometimes pro- 
duce copious salivation. As is the case with the 
White Sulphur, the most valuable effects of the 
Avon waters are found in their alterative or 
changing effects, and these effects are best promoted 
by using it in such doses as do not much increase 
the natural evacuations of the body. Like the 
White Sulphur, the quantity of sulphuretted 
hydrogen gas which the Avon waters contain, is 
too large for its kindly effects in many cases, and 
hence Dr. S. remarks, that after it has been 
heated, and therefore deprived of a portion of its 
gas, it becomes more aperient, and that it may be 
used in this way ^^ when the inflammatory diathe- 
sis prevails to such an extent as to resist its 
beneficial and successful administration in its 
natural state." The proper graduation of the 
amount of sulphuretted hydrogen gas to the Avants 
and ability of the system to bear it, especially in 
commencing the use of the v/ater, is a practical 
matter of great importance in the use of such 
waters, and one to which I have directed a 



AVON WATERS — MEDICIXAL EMPLOYMENT. 4oD 

careful attention for many years.''* In adminis- 
tering the White Sulphur water I produce the 
same effect, by allowing the water to stand in an 
open vessel for several hours before it is used, 
that Dr. Salsbury does by having it heated before 
it is drunk. From four to seven half-pint glasses 
of this water, taken during the twenty-four hours, 
will generally produce a slight cathartic effect, 
and sometimes purge briskly. Two or three 
tumblers full may advantageously be taken before 
breakfast, one or two before dinner, and one or 
two in the afternoon^ or before going to bed at 
night. No particular dose, or times of adminis- 
tration, can be positively prescribed, however, as 
applicable to all cases. Its administration must 
be regulated by the indications of each, and regard 
must be had to age, sex, constitution, disease, 
individual peculiarity, and especially to nervous 
susceptibility. It is, however, most prudent 
and wise for the invalid before he commences 
the use of this, or any other potent mineral 
water, to obtain the advice of a competent physi- 
cian, whose practical familiarity with the use of 
the waters in question, qualifies him to advise as 
to its adaptation to the case, and the proper 
manner of using it. In the absence of such 
advice, mistakes, even fatal mistakes, are some- 
times made. 

* See Chapter VI, on the Relative Yu'tues of the Gaseous and 
Saline Contents of the White Sulphur Water, &c. 



456 N. y. SULPHUR and acidulous springs. 



CHAPTER XXXVI. 

KEW YORK SULPHUR AND ACIDULOUS SPRINGS. 

Clifton Springs — Manlius Springs — Chittenango Springs — Mes- 
sina Sulphur Springs — Manlius Springs — Auburn Springs — 
Chappiqua Springs — Harrowgate Spring — Spring at Troy — 
Newhurg Spring — Springs in Dutchess and ColumUa Counties — 
Catskill Spring — JSfanticoke Spring — Dryden Spring — Rochester 
Spring — Springs in Monroe County : Gates, Mendon and 
Ogden — Verona Spring — Saquoit Spring — Springs in Niagara 
County — Seneca or Deer Lick Spring — Oak Orchard Acid 
Springs — Acid Spring at Clifton, &c. 

In addition to the two principal sulphurous 
springs of Sharron and Avon already noticed, 
there are numerous others of less public notoriety. 
The first of these I shall mention is — 

Clifton Springs. — They are situated in the 
County of Ontario, between Vienna and Canan- 
daigua. In importance they should, probably, 
rank next to Sharron and Avon. The odor and 
taste of these waters are distinctly sulphurous. 
Their temperature is 51° Fah. These waters. Dr. 
Beck asserts, have their origin in hydraulic lime- 
stone, underlying a strata of common limestone. 
There are here several springs, one of which is 
very bold and yields a large amount of water. 



CHITTENAXGO AND MESSINA SPRINGS. 457 

No analysis of these waters has heen given to the 
public that I am aware of. 

Chittenango Springs are in the County of 
Madison, near Chittenango Creek. Two springs 
hei'e have attracted attention ; their temperature 
is 49° Fah. They have heen ascertained- to con- 
tain the sulphates and carbonates of lime, sul- 
phate of magnesia, chloride of sodium, with 
sulphuretted hydrogen and carbonic acid gases. 
Dr. Beck remarks that these waters are highly 
esteemed in many cases of disease, and their 
location being very eligible, he expresses the 
opinion that when they are better known they 
will be much resorted to. 

Messina Sulphur Springs — Are situated three 
miles northeast of Syracuse and one mile from 
the Erie Canal. The temperature of their water 
is 50° Fall., and its taste strongly sulphurous. 
It is said to have been used with good effects in 
many cases. 

An analysis of the water shows it to contain, in 
one pint : — 

Carbonate of lime - 1-85 grains. 

Sulpliate of lime ,. 8'o5 " 

Sulphate of magnesia ■ 1-36 " 

Chloride of calcimn 1-33 " 

13-09 
39 



458 N. Y. SULPHUR AND ACIDULOUS SPRINGS. 

Manlius Springs — Are found in Onanciaga 
County. They are slightly saline in taste, and 
are impregnated but in slight degree with sul- 
phuretted hydrogen gas. They have acquired 
some local reputation as a remedial agent. 

In the neigliborhood of these springs there is a 
small sulphurous lake, known by the name of 
Lake Sodom. We are told by Dr. Beck that the 
depth of this lake gradually increases from its 
northern outlet from twenty-five to one hundred 
and sixty-eight feet, and that water drawn from 
this depth is found to be highly impregnated with 
sulphuretted hydrogen. The color of the water in 
this lake is a deep green, from which, it is some- 
times called Green Pond. 

Auburn Springs. — There are two springs that 
bear this name, separated several miles from each 
other. One of these is situated two miles north 
of the village of Auburn ; the other four miles 
west of the same village. An analysis of the 
latter spring, by Dr. Chilton, shows the following 
ingredients in one pint of the water : — 

Sulphate of lime 15-00 grains. 

Sulphate of magnesia 3'20 " 

Chloride of magnesium 0-25 " 

Chloride of sodium 0"75 " 

19-20 " 
Sulphuretted hydrogen, I'S cubic inches. 



CHAPPIQUA — HARROWGATE — NEWBURG. 459 

In the Valley of the Hudsoiij Dr. Beck mentions 
numerous sulphurous springs. They are found 
from the neighborhood of Sing Sing to Fort 
Miller, a distance of one hundred and fifty miles. 

The Chappiqua Spring is four miles from Sing 
Sing. It holds in solution sulphate of lime, 
chloride of calcium, and the muriate of iron and 



Harrowgate Spring is near Greenbush, in Rens- 
saellaer County. 

There is also a sulphurous spring in the north- 
ern end of the City of Troy, in Eensaellaer 
County. 

There are several sulphur springs in the 
County of Albany, one of them very near the 
City of Albany. 

The Newburg Spring, slightly impregnated with 
sulphuretted hydrogen, is in the County of 
Orange. 

In Dutchess and Columbia Counties there are 
several springs. The most noted one in Dutchess 
is near Ameriiaville. In Columbia there is one on 
the farm of Mr. McNaughton, between the Shaker 
Village and Lebanon Springs, and another near 
the village of Kinderhook. 



460 N. Y. SULPHUR AND ACIDULOUS SPRINGS. 

The Catskill Spring is two miles from tlie 
village of Catskill, in the County of Green. 
There are several others in the same neighbor- 
hood. 

In the southwestern part of the State, we find 
the Nanticohe Spring, in the County of Broome. 
It has acquired considerable reputation. Dryclen 
Springs are in the town of Dryden, in Thompkins 
County, ten miles from Ithaca. They have acquired 
reputation in their region of country, aiid are 
considerably resorted to. 

Rochester Spring-, otherwise known as Long- 
muirs Sulphur Well, in the City of Rochester, is 
much used by the inhabitants of the City. It rises 
through a boring of two hundred feet in depth. It 
deposits, when heated to 100° Fall., carbonate of 
lime and sulphur. Its temperature at the surface 
is usually 52° Fah., and its specific gravity, 
1 '00407. One pint of the water contains : — 

Carbonate of lime and magnesia, witii a trace of iron... 1*48 grains. 

Chloride of sodium 6-52 " 

Sulphate of soda 6-99 " 

14-99 
Sulphuretted hydrogen 2"16 cubic inches. 
Carbonic acid in small quantity. 

In the County of Monroe are the Sulphureous 
Springs of GateSj Mendon and Ogden, at all of 
which there are suitable bathing arrangements, 
and proper accommodations for visitors. 



VERONA SPRINGS. 461 

Verona Spring is in Oneida County, fourteen 
miles from Utica. Professor Noye's analysis of 
the water of this spring, shows that one pint 
contains : — 

Chloride of calcium with cliloride of magnesium.. 8-50 gi'ains 

Sulphate of lime 7-50 " 

Chloride of sodium 90-00 " 

106-00 
Sulphuretted hydrogen is very abundant in the water, amount- 
ing almost to complete saturation. 

About nine miles from XTtica are the Saquoit 
Springs. Their waters are very highly impreg- 
nated with carburetted hydrogen, and contains in 
considerable quantities the chlorides of sodium 
and magnesium, w^ith a small portion of the sul- 
phate of lime, and a trace of iron. So abundant 
is the carburetted hydrogen in the water, that it 
is collected, conducted througli tubes, and kept 
constantly burning. 

In Niagara County, there are several Sulphur 
Springs ; among them may be mentioned those 
near the Falls of Niagara, those near Lockport, 
and also those in the neighborhood of Lewistown. 

The Seneca, or Deer Lich Springs, are in Erie 
County, four miles from Buffalo. They hold in 
solution carbonate of lime, soda and magnesia, 
with sulphate of lime. They abound richly in 
sulphuretted hydrogen. 
39* 



462 ACID SPRINGS OF NEW YORK. 

We are told that Sulphurous SpriDgs are also 
found in the northern part of New York, in Lewis, 
Clinton and St. LaureDce Counties. 

ACID SPRINGS OF NEW YORK. 

In addition to the acidulo-saline and sulphurous 
waters already describedj there are in New York 
several acidulous springs. The acid quality of 
these waters is owing to their holding in solution 
an excess of sulphuric acid, which is readily 
detected both by their taste and by chemical 
reagents. 

These waters are found to be so largely im- 
pregnated with iron in the form of a proto-sulphate, 
and with sulphate of allumina, as to entitle them 
to be called Ghalyheates or Alum waters, with as 
much propriety as they are called acidulous. 
Similar springs in Virginia, are uniformly known 
by the name oi Alum Springs, 

Acidulated aluminous springs, partaking of 
the same general character of the Acid Springs of 
New York, which we are about to consider, are 
found in every neighborhood in certain geological 
districts in Virginia, and especially on the eastern 
and w^estern slopes of the Alleghany chain of 
mountains, through the entire district there 
known as the great '^Spring Eegion." 

Fountains of the same general character are 
found in Pennsylvania, and also in the eastern 



OAK ORCHAED SPRINGS. 463 

portion of Tennessee, and will probably be dis- 
covered along the entire course of the great 
Apalachian upheavings, or axis of disturbance 
from the extreme north to the alluvial plains of 
the Gulf of Mexico. 

The principal springs of this clas5J in New York, 
are the Oah Orchard Springs. They are eight in 
number. Their situation is in Genesee County, 
eight miles southeast from Lockport, and about 
six miles from the Erie canal, at the village of 
Medina. These waters have been analyzed by 
Professor Emmons and Dr. Chilton. 

Professor Emmons' examinations of Spring Ko, 
1, shows that one pint of the water contains the 
following ingredients : — 

Free siilpliuric acid 31 '50 grains. 

Sulphate of protoxide of iron 19-50 

Siilpliate of lime 4-50 

Sulphate of magnesia 2-00 

Silica 0-33 

Organic matter 1-33 

59-16 
Equal to 473.28 grains to the gallon. 

Spring No. 2 was fouud to contain but 24*25 
grains of free acid and solid ingredients to the 
pint, and No. 3 but 19'33. 

Dr. Chilton by an analysis of one gallon of the 
water of Spring No. 1, arrives at results strikingly 



464 ACID SPRINGS OF NEW YORK. 

different from those of Professor Emmons. Plis 
researches shows one gallon to contain : * 

Free sulphuric acid 82-96 grains 

Sulphate of lime 39'60 " 

Phospliateofiron 14-32 " 

- Sulphate of alumina... 9-68 " 

Sulphate of magnesia 8-28 " 

Silica 1-04 " 

Organic extractive matter 3-28 '^ 

159-16 
Equal to about 20 grains to the pint. 

The difference in the amount of these waters in 
the several fountains during wet and dry weather 
is always noticeablej and in some instances is very 
remarkable. Generally^ they are surface springs, 
the waters obtaining their peculiar impregnations 
by percolating through the peculiar argillite slate 
in which they are found. Whatever difficulties 
there may be in accounting for the peculiar 
impregnations of some mineral waters, there are 
none in reference to this class, for portions of the 
slaty rock through which the waters percolate, 
when immersed in common water, produce the 
very same impregnations that are found in the 
water in the pools in which it is collected for use. 
Many persons in the South use at their homes the 
Virginia alum waters prepared in this j9ro re nata 
way from the rock obtained from the various alum 
fountains. 

* Mineral and Thermal Springs of the United States and Canada. 



i 



OAK ORCHARD SPRINGS. 465 

Taking Dr. Cliilton's analysis as the standard, 
the Oak Orchard Springs more resemble the Eock- 
bridge alum waters in Yirginia, than any others 
to which they can be compared. The -resemblance 
is only striking in this, however, that they both 
contain free sulphuric acid, alumina and iron in 
marked proportions ; the sulphuric acid, lime, 
iron and magnesia in the New York springs 
being greater than in the Virginia waters, w^hile 
the alumina and silica are more than fifty per 
cent greater in the latter. In addition to these 
ingredients, common to both waters, the Kock- 
bridge Spring contains chlorate of sodium, crenate 
of ammonia and free carbonic acid, ingredients 
not found in the Oak Orchard Springs. 

As theraj)eutic agents, this class of waters are 
tonic and astringent. In enfeebled condition of the 
digestive and uterine functions — in cases of pure 
atony or feebleness unaccompanied by inflammation, 
or irritation in any of the organs — in exhaustion 
from previous disease, where the chief complaint 
is debility — and in cases of anceinia or poverty of 
the blood, when unconnected with obstinate vis- 
ceral obstructions, they are safel}^ and beneficially 
prescribed. In passive hemorrhages, long con- 
tinued intermittents and dropsical effusions, 
unattended with organic obstructions — in leucor- 
rhoea and chlorosis, they are often beneficial. In 
chronic diarrhoea, as well as in chronic irritations 
and debility of the kidneys, bladder and urethra, 



466 ACID SPRINGS OF NEW YORK. 

they are usefully employed. The Virginia waters 
of this class have proven eminently remedial in 
scrofula ; indeed, no remedy is now attracting so 
much attention for this formidable disease, in the 
southern country, as the alum waters. Upon this 
particular subject, as well as for a more general 
notice of the therapeutic range of such waters, I 
refer the reader to what has been said under the 
head of the Rochhridge Alum Springs. 

Dr. S. P. White* thinks favorably of the Oak 
Orchard Spring waters in some of the cutaneous 
diseases, and in the colliquative sweats of hectic 
fever. He regards it worthy of a trial in the 
phosphatic diathesis, in cholica pictonum and 
asthma, and also in chronic laryngitis, pharyin- 
getis and chronic conjunctivetis. 

Dr. White recommends that this water be taken 
in '^ about a wine glass full, diluted with simple 
water, three times a day." This dose is much 
smaller than I have been accustomed to recommend 
in the use of similar waters. The practice found 
most beneficial with the Virginia waters of the 
same general character, is to use from two to six 
half-pint glasses in the course of the twenty-four 
hours. 

At Clifton Springs, twelve miles from Geneva, 
there is an acid spring. I have not seen an 
analysis of it. 

* Paper read before the Kew York Academy of Medicine in 
December, 1848. Vide Mineral and Thermal Springs of United 
States^ &c. 



BYRON SPRINGS. 467 

Byron Acid or Sour Springs are the names given 
to two acidulous sjDrings in the town of Byron, 
Genesee County. One of these springs is near the 
Byron Hotels and is remarkable for the great 
quantity of acid contained in its waters. It is a 
stream of considerable boldness, so much so as to 
be sufficient to operate a grist mill. 

Dr. Beck describes this water as intensely sour, 
transparent and colorless, and of the specific 
gravity of 1-H304 at 60° Fah. Its saline matter, 
which is small, consists of silica and alumina, 
with small quantity of oxide of iron and lime. Dr. 
Beck remarks that ^' this is a nearly pure, though 
dilute sulphuric acid, and not a solution of acid 
salts as has been supposed, for the bases are in too 
minute a proportion to warrant the latter opinion." 

Lebanon Spring belongs to the thermal class of 
waters. It is in the County of Columbia. The 
bathing here is very delightful, the temperature 
of the water being constantly Y3° Fahrenheit. Its 
mineral impregnation is scarcely noticeable, being 
only a grain and a quarter in a pint. So abundant 
is the supply of this thermal water that it is 
employed to operate two or three mills erected at 
no great distance from its source. 



468 SPRINGS OF PENNSYLVANIA. 



CHAPTEB XXXYII. 

SPRINGS OF PENNSYLVANIA, 

Bedford Springs — Frankfort Mineral Springs — Clialyleate Spring 
near Pittsburg — York Springs — Carlisle Springs — Perry County 
Springs^^-Doubling Gap and Chalybeate * Springs — Fayette 
Spring-^Bath Clmlyheate Spring — Blossburg Spring — Ephrata 
Springs--"- Yellow Springs — Caledonia Springs. 

Pursuing the plan I have adopted of introducing 
the States somewhat in respect to the extent and 
importance of their mineral waters, I next notice 
the mineral springs of Pennsylvania ; and, first, 
as holding the highest rank among her mineral 
fountains, the — 

BEDFORD SPRINGS. 

The strong mineral impregnation of the Bedford 
waters, their valuable therapeutic effects, the 
high mountain altitude in which they are situated, 
together with the delightful summer climate and 
very pleasant mountain scenery of their neighbor- 
hood, combine to make them a. place of large, 
pleasant and useful resort, alike to the seekers of 
health and the votaries of pleasure. They are in 
the County of Bedford, and two miles from the 



Anderson's spring. 469 

village of Bedford, one hundred miles west of 
Harrisburg, and one hundred and thirty miles 
northwest from Baltimore ; they are less than one 
hundred miles east of Pittsburg, and one hundred 
and thirty northwest from Washington. 

The principal spring is known as Anderson's, 
the others are called Siveet, Sul]pliurj Chcdyheate, 
Limestone and Fletcher s or Upper Spring. 

Anderson's Spring is a saline chalybeate water. 
Its most active ingredients are sulphate of mag- 
nesia and carbonate of iron, the former exists in. 
the water in tlie large proportion of 80 grains to 
the gallon, the latter in 5 grains. Dr. Church, 
who analyzed this water in 1825, states that '' the 
water is clear, lively and sparkling. At 10 A. 
M., oji the 28th of May, the temperature of the 
water in the spring was 58° Fah., while that of 
the surrounding atmosphere was 73° of the same 
scale. Its specific gravity is 1029. It has a 
peculiar saline taste, resembling a weak solution 
of Epsom salts in water, impregnated with 
carbonic acid, and exhales no perceptible odor. 
On exposure in an open vessel to the air, it 
becomes vapid, but does not become turbid or 
deposit a sediment. The water deposits carbonate 
of iron on those substances over which it con- 
stantly flows. Limestone, iron ore, calcareous and 
silicious substances abound about the spring. 

40 



470 SPRINGS OF PENNSYLVANIA. 

Dr. Church's analysis of one quart of the water 
shows the following results : — 

Sulpliate of magnesia or Epsom salts 20 grains. 

Sulphate of lime 3|- " 

Muriate of soda 2i " 

Muriate of lime f " 

Carbonate of iron IJ " 

Carbonate of lime 2 " 

Loss f 

31 

Carbonic acid gas 18i cubic inches. 

The Sweet Springs, (Dr. Church,) ^^are two in 
number, and issue from fissures in slate rocks, 
about fifty yards apart, on the east side of Federal 
Hill, about one hundred and fifty yards from 
Anderson's Spring, from which they are separated 
by Shover's Creek. They are copious springs, of 
remarkably pure water, which is very clear and 
colorless. Its temperature was, on the 28th of 
May, 52° Fall. The water of these springs is used 
for cooking, washing, &c., by the residents at 
Bedford Springs, and the visitors decidedly prefer 
it for drinking water, and, on account of its purity, 
they very appropriate! 3^ called these springs the 
Siveet Springs.'' 

The Sulphur Spring is on the west side of 
Shover's Creek, about two hundred yards from 
Anderson's Spring. It is not as copious in its flow 
as the other springs. Its temperature is 56° Fah., 



CHALYBEATE SPRING, 471 

and it has a strong odor of sulphuretted hydro- 
gen. Dr. Church's experiments with this water 
determined that it holds in solution carbonic 
acid, sulphuretted hydrogen gas, with lime, mag- 
nesia and common salt in small quantities. This 
spring contains no iron. 

The Chalybeate Spring, Dr. Church states, 
*^ rises in a meadow, about one and a half miles 
northeast of Bedford, and about three miles from 
Anderson's Spring. It is not a copious spring. 
The water exhales the peculiar odor of sulphu- 
retted hydrogen gas, and is covered with a thin 
whitish pellicle. When first taken from the 
spring it is clear and limpid, but on exposure in 
an open vessel to the action of the air, it becomes 
turbid. Its taste is ferruginous and slightly 
hepatic." Experiments prove that this water 
contains sulphuretted hydrogen and carbonic acid 
gases, carbonate of iron, muriate of soda, and a 
minute portion of magnesia. In cleaning out 
this spring, many years ago, a part of the skele- 
ton of a mammoth was found imbedded in the 
mud. 

The Limestone Spring is a bold fountain of pure 
water, about two hundred yards below Anderson's 
Spring. Its temperature is 51° Fah. 

Fletcher's, or the Upper Spring, is on the 
west side of Constitution Hill, one hundred and 



472 SPRINGS OF PENNSYLVANIA. 

fifty yards from Anderson's Spring. Its tempera- 
ture is 55° Fah. Dr. Church's experiments with 
this water show that it contains rather more iron 
and common salt, with less magnesia, and ahout 
the same proportion of the other ingredients, that 
are found in the waters of Anderson's Spring. 

The Bedford waters are laxative and tonic in 
their effects. They are said to '^give rise to full 
purging, and cause a discharge of hilious or other 
acrid matters, with as much activity as the most 
powerful purgatives. They also excite the action 
of the kidneys and skin, causing a very free 
secretion of urine and perspiration." 

Dr. Caspar Morris, an eminent physician of 
Philadelphia^ in a communication to the Medical 
Examiner in ]852, thus speaks of the virtues and 
manner of using the Bedford waters : — • 

'^The sensihle action of the mineral spring at 
Bedford, is on the kidneys, producing very 
prompt and profuse diuresis ; on the skin, giving 
rise to very free perspiration ; and on the howels, 
causing gentle catharsis. It will thus he evident 
that all the emunctories are stimulated to 
increased activity ; the discharges are copious, 
and yet not only is no dehility induced, hut there 
is an actual increase of vital force in proportion to 
this activity. I have myself twice gone to Bedford 
60 prostrated as scarcely to endure the fatigue of 



BEDFORD WATERS. 



473 



the journey, and wholly disqualified for all 
exertion, and have, in both instances, returned at 
the end of a fortnight or three weeks, restored to 
my wonted power of labor, and have witnessed 
similar results in the cases of friends and patients. 
This increase of energy cannot be justly attributed 
to the mere catharsis of diuresis, disgorging the 
portal circulation, and thus promoting digestion 
and assimilation, though, undoubtedly, much is 
due to this cause." 

Dr. Morris recommends that patients commence 
the use of the water early in th<3 morning, and 
take as much as five glasses before breakfast, wdth 
intervals of not less than ten minutes between the 
glasses. He advises a brisk walk between each 
glass, and that two hours should be occupied with 
the drinking and walking before breakfast, and 
adds, "during which time the skin and kidneys 
will pour forth an amount of fluid proportioned to 
the quantity which has been swallowed, and these 
secretions should be promoted by exercise adapted 
to the strength of the invalid. The quantity 
mentioned will generally occasion some three or 
four watery evacuations from the bowels, of a 
bright yellow color, w^ithout pain or exhaustion. 
Should this not occur during the tv>'o hours follow- 
ing breakfast, another glass should be swallowed 
before dinner, and in case the bowels should still 
resist the influence of the water, a dose of blue 
40^ 



474 SPRINGS OF PENNSYLVANIA. 

pill should be taken at bed time, followed in the 
morning either by calcined magnesia or the 
addition of Epsom salts to the water. I have 
never known the water to prove violently or 
painfully active, but in one person. In such an 
event the use of it should be suspended." 

Dr. John Bell bears testimony from his own 
experience, to the excellent effects of this water in 
sick headache, and in other cases of distressing 
nausea, in gastralgic pains and constipation of 
the bowels. 

Frankfort Mineral Springs. — These springs 
are situated in Beaver County, twenty-six miles 
southwest from Pittsburg, and one mile and a half 
from the village of Frankfort. The principal 
spring is known as Cave Spring. It arises within 
a large and very romantic cave, on the plantation 
of Mr. Stevens. The cave itself is an interesting 
natural curiosity, and is much visited by the 
people of the surrounding country. Dr. Church, 
of Pittsburg, directed attention to the medicinal 
virtues of the Cave Spring water many years ago. 
By his analysis the water is found to contain 
carbonic acid, carbonate of iron, carbonate of 
magnesia, muriate of soda, a minute portion of 
bitumen and sulphuretted hydrogen gas. 

There is a fountain known as Leiper's Sj^ring 
very near Frankfort, which Dr. Church found to 
hold in solution somewhat more carbonate of iron 



CHALYBEATE SPKING. 4*75 

and muriate of soda, with less magnesia^ and 
about the same proportion of carbonic acid, 
sulphuretted hydrogen and bitumenj that is found 
in the Cave Spring water. 

Dr. Church remarks that these waters some- 
times occasion nausea and vomiting when first 
drunk, but, generally^ they set kindly and 
pleasantly on the stomach. It generally operates 
mildly on the bowels and copiously by the kid- 
neys. With some persons its free use occasions 
vertigo, with slight sensation of intoxication. 
As a therapeutic agent it is said to '' regulate the 
bowels, strengthen the stomach, improve the appe- 
tite, clear the skin, promote diaphoresis, and 
cause great freedom of urination.'' 

Chalybeate Spring near Pittsburg. — This spring 
is about four miles from the City of Pittsburg. 
Dr. John Bell* gives the following description 
and analysis of it by Dr. Meade : — 

"When the water remains undisturbed for a 
few hours, it is covered by a white pellicle, its 
taste is lively and rather pungent, with a peculiar 
ferruginous flavor, and it exhales an odor of 
sulphuretted hydrogen gas. Its temperature is 
very generally uniform, and is 54° Fah. The 
specific gravity of the water differs little from the 
purest water, and is as 1*002 to I'OOO. 

* Mineral and Thermal Springs, <S:c. 



476 SPRINGS OF PENNSYLVANIA. 

^'According to Dr. Meade's analysis it contains 
muriato of soda, 2 grains ; muriate of magnesia, 
J grain , oxide of iron, 1 grain; sulphate of lime, 
^ grain ; carbonic acid gas in one quart of water_, 
18 cubic inches. 

"Dr. Meade thinks this water even superior, 
in a medical point of view, to the water of the 
ScJiooley's Mountain Spring, which has long sus- 
tained a high character for its chalybeate proper- 
ties/'' 

York Springs. — These springs are in Adams 
County, and are readily reached by railroad from 
Philadelphia and Baltimore. There are here two 
principal springs, one strongly chalybeate, the 
other distinctly saline. The latter contains 6 
grains sulphate of lime, 4 muriate of soda, and 
1'20 sulphate of magnesia in a pint of water. 
This spring is said to be diuretic and somewhat 
cathartic. The chalybeate is doubtless adapted 
to the class of diseases in which chalybeate waters 
are commonly prescribed. 

Carlisle Springs are mild sulphurous ivaters. 
They are near the pleasant town of Carlisle, 
through which passes the railroad from Phila- 
delphia to Pittsburg. The hotel accommodations 
here are said to be very good. 

Perry County Springs. — These springs are at 
the base of Pisgah Mountain, fourteen miles from 



DOUBLING GAP SPRINGS. 



ill 



Harrisburg, and eleven from Carlisle. They 
belong distinctly to the thermal class, their 
temperature being from 70° to 72° Fah. When 
used as a drink they are gently aperient and 
decidedly diuretic. They are most esteemed as a 
bath, and employed in this way, have proved 
beneficial in various disorders^ and especially in 
diseases of the skin. 

Doubling Gap Sulphurous and Chalybeate 
Springs. — These springs are in Cumberland 
County, about thirty miles west from Harrlsburg. 
They are eight miles from Newville, through 
which tlie Cumberland Valley Kailroad passes, 
and from whence, passengers to the springs, are 
conveyed by stages. 

I am indebted to Dr. John Bell for Professor 
Booth's chemical examinations of these waters. 
He says: "the odor of sulphuretted hydrogen, 
perceived at some distance from the springs, 
imparts to this water the peculiar properties of 
sulphur springs. Besides this ingredient, I find 
that the water contains carbonates of soda and of 
magnesia, Glauber's salts, Epsom salts, and 
common salt ; ingredients which give it an 
increased value. After removing the excess of 
carbonic acid which it contains, it gives an 
alkaline reaction." 

Of the other springs he remarks : " The cha- 
lybeate water readily yields a precipitate after 



4*78 SPRINGS OF PENNSYL^^ANIA. 

ebullition or continued exposure to the excess of 
carbonic acid. Besides the bi-carbonate of iron, 
which is the chief characteristic, it also contains 
Epsom salts, common salt, and carbonate of mag- 
nesia.'' 

The composition of these springs indicate with 
sufficient clearness their respective applicability 
as therapeutic agents. The first belongs to the 
mild sulphurous saline, the second to the carbon- 
ated ferruginous class. 

Fayette Spring. — This spring is situated on the 
eastern slope of the Laurel Hill, and near the 
great National road. The water is chalybeate, 
very cold and abundant in quality. The scenery 
around the spring is wild and romantic, and the 
coolness, freshness and elasticity of the air whole- 
some and invigorating. 

Bath Chalybeate Spring is near the town of 
Bristol on the Delaware. Dr. Bell, informs us 
that ^"^ these springs used to be visited by many 
of the citizens of Philadelphia, on account, in 
good part, of ready access to them," and that Dr. 
Benjamin Kush, wrote an account of them in 
1773. They seem now to have gone very much 
out of public notice. 

Blossburg Springs. — These springs belong to the 
class known as acid waters in New York, and as 
Alum Springs in Virginia. In taste they very 
much resemble the Kockbridge Alum water. They 



BLOSSBURG SPRINGS. 479 

contain a large amount of free sulphuric acid, 
and less alumina than the Virginia waters. Un- 
like Rockbridge water, they readily deposit, when 
removed from the spring, a large portion of the 
iron they hold in solution. 

The Blosshurg waters are adapted to the same 
general class of diseases for which the Virginia 
and New York acid waters are beneficially pre- 
scribed. The dose of a ''table spoonful" in which 
they are sometimes recommended, is altogether 
too small to produce any beneficial effects in 
ordinary cases. I have had an opportunity of 
examining the Blosshurg water, and of carefully 
comparing it with the Eockbridge waters, and I 
am sure, judging from the relative strength of 
the two, and from my knowledge of the proper 
dose of the latter, that from two to four, or even 
five glasses of the Blosshurg waters may in many 
cases, be beneficially taken in the course of the 
twenty-four hours. 

These springs are in Tioga County, near the 
New York line, and in the immediate region of 
beds of iron and bituminous coal. 

In addition to the mineral springs of Pennsyl- 
vania, already noticed, there are numerous pure, 
cool and invigorating fountains, that from the 
great purity of their waters, their healthful situa- 
tion, the character of their accommodations, and 
the facility with which they may be reached, 
have become places of considerable summer resort. 



480 SPRINGS OF PENNSYLVANIA. 

Ill this category may be reckoned the EpJirafa, 
Tellow and the Caledonia Springs. I will notice 
them in the order I have named them. 

The Eplirata Springs, the annual resort of many 
persons during the summer season, are situated 
in the rich agricultural County of Lancaster. 
The grounds around them are very pleasant, tlie 
scenery interesting and the hotel accommodations 
excellent. Baths of various temperatures are 
furnished, and matiy inducements offered to make 
the sojourn of visitors at these springs both. 
agreeable and beneficial. 

The Yelloiv Springs, are thirty miles from Phila- 
del])hia, in the County of Chester. From these 
springs a magnificent view of a most interesting 
surrounding country is obtained. The rides and 
drives are very pleasant, and the twice daily 
communication with Philadelphia by the Reading 
Bailroad and stages, offer great facilities to the 
citizens of the city in the enjoyment of country 
air and spring recreations. They have facilities 
here for the shower and douche, as well as for 
the common immersion baths. The hotel accom- 
modations are said to be most excellent. 

Caledonia Springs, were formerly known as 
Swenei/'s Cold Springs. They are about fifteen miles 
from Chambersburg. Visitors to them, on arriving 
at Chambersburg, may immediately proceed by 
coach to their destination. The Avater of these 



CALEDONIA SPRINGS. 481 

springSj used as a bath, have enjoyed a liigli local 
reputation for many years, in the cure of various 
diseases, for which cold, tepid, or warm baths are 
commonly employed. Chronic rheumatism has 
been often submitted to the Caledonia bath, and 
it is said with excellent effect. 

The waters of Caledonia are very pure, the 
baths comfortable_, the cuisine admirable, while 
the mountain .and intervale scenery, and the 
elastic invigorating atmosphere, afford all that 
could be desired of scenery or climate to delight 
the mind, invigorate the system, and give new 
life and energy to the liahitues of cities, worn down 
in the treadmill of incessant toils, counting-room 
confinement, or commercial anxieties. 



41 



482 MINERAL SPRINaS OF VEEMONT. 



CHAPTEK XXXVIIL 

MINERAL SPRINGS OF VERMONT. 

Clarendon Gaseous Springs.' — This is a mild 
acidulous water, very slightly impregnated with 
saline matterj so slight, indeed, as to make it 
rank among the purest waters known. Dr. Bell"^ 
states on the authority of Dr. Gallup, who pub- 
lished a notice of this spring, that it has been 
ascertained by analysis to contain in an American 
gallon, 235 cubic inches, the following ingredi- 
ents^ — 

Nitrogen or azote, m. 9-63 cubic inches 

Carbonic acid 46-16 " 

Besides atmospheric air. 

Carbonate of lime 3-02 grains. 

Muriate of lime, Sulphate of lime, and Sul- 
phate of magnesia 2-74 " 

5-76 
Temperature of the Higher spring 48° Fah., of the Lower 54° 
Fahrenheit. 

These waters have acquired considerable re- 
putation in the surrounding countr}'^ for the cure 

* Mineral and Thermal waters, &c., &c. 



NEWBUEG — HianaATE. 483 

of dropsical effusions, diseases of the skin; chronic 
bronchitis, irritations of the bladder, &c., &c. 

The quantity of the water advised to be used, 
varies from five to twenty-five half pint tumblers in 
course of the twenty-four hours. On commencing 
their use, they are said often to excite slight 
nausea, with a seuse of warmth on the surface, 
but that those sensations disappear in five or six 
hours, in which time their diuretic effects will 
be manifest. 

Newburg Sulphur SpRixa is twenty-seven miles 
in an easterly direction from Montpelier. This is 
a spring of some notoriety in the country around, 
and considerably resorted to by invalids. No. 
analysis as far as I know, has been made gf the 
waters, but it is said to be very strongly impreg- 
nated with sulphuretted hydrogen gas. Other 
springs of similar character are found in the same 
region of country. 

There are good hotel accommodations here, and 
pleasant facilities for bathing. The use of the 
water has been much praised in diseases of the 
skin, and in scrofulous afi'ections. 

HiGnaATE Speixgs, eleven miles from the boat 
landing at Albon's Bay, are sulphurous waters, 
and of the same general character of the Newburg 
Spring. 



484 SPRINGS OF MASSACHUSETTS. 

•The Abburgh Spring is a suphurous water, simi- 
lar to the waters of Newburg and Highgate just 
"noticed. 

Professor Hitchcock, mentions a thermal spring 
near Bennington, but does not give its tempera- 
ture. It throws off oxygen and nitrogen gases, 
and the water is so abundant that it is used for 
operating machinery. 



I 



CHAPTER XXXIX. 

SPRINGS OF MASSACHUSETTS. 

HoPKiNTON Springs have acquired some reputation 
in the section of country in which they are situated. 
An analysis of the water of the principal spring, 
by Dr. Gorham, shows that it contains the car- 
bonates of magnesia, lime and iron. One of the 
springs here is strongly impregnated with sul- 
phur. 

Berkshire Soda Spring. — This watering place 
is situated in the mountain in Berkshire county, 



1 



BERKSHIRE SODA SPRING. 485 

three miles from the village of Great Barrington, 
through which the cars of the Housatonic Railroad 
run four times daily. During thi watering season 
carriages run regularly four times a day between 
Great Barrington and the Springs. 

As embodying the best information at command 
in reference to this spring, I insert the following 
extract of a letter^ from Dr. C. T. Collins to Dr. 
Valentine Mott, for which I am indebted to Dr. 
John Bell's recent volume on the Mineral and 
Thermal Springs of the United States and Canada : 

'^ I must not close this letter without mentioning 
a very valuable mineral spring, situated among 
the mountains, a short distance from this village, 
and which has, for many years past, had a high 
local reputation for the cure of scrofula and erup- 
tive diseases of the skin. 

^' The people in this part of the country consider 
it a specific for the cure of all that class of erup- 
tive diseases which are popularly called by the 
vague and indefinite term of salt rheum. 

" During the past year, by way of experiment, 
I have placed several obstinate cases of Eczema, 
Ecthyma, Acne, Porrigo, &c., under the exclusive 
treatment of this water, an'd the results have been 
very satisfactory. Indeed, I may say, that, in some 
cases, its effect was most extraordinary. So 
pleased was I with the use of this mineral water 
that I sent a jug of it to New York city, and had 
41* 



486 SPRINGS OF NEW JERSEY AND MAINE. 

it analyzed by Professor Doremus and Dr. Blake, 
the former assistant of Professor Silliman. It was 
found to contain soda, chlorine, carbonic acid and 
a trace of alumina. Yet there is but little taste 
in it other than that of pure water. When bathed 
in, it imparts to the skin the most delightful 
softness of any that I have ever used_, causing 
even a rough skin to feel smooth." 

Arrangements exist here for the comfortable 
use of warm, cold and shower baths. 



CHAPTEK XL. 



SPRINGS OF NEW JERSEY AND MAINE. 
SCHOOLEY'S MOUNTAIN. 

The principal watering place in New Jersey is 
ScJiooley's Mountain Spring, situated in Morris 
County, nineteen miles north-west from Morris- 
town, and fifty from the city of New York. The 
water of this spring finds its exit from the earth, 
near the summit of Schooley's Mountain, whence 
it is conveyed some distance down the mountain 
to a platform for the use of visitors, as a beverage 
and a bath. The quantity flowing from the 
spring is uniformly about thirty gallons in an 



schooley's mountain spring. 487 

hour. Its temperature is 50° Fall. Its taste is 
strongly clialybeate, and it deposits oxide of iron 
readily upon substances with which it comes in 
contact. Its source is in the neighborhood of 
beds of iron ore, some of which, on both sides of 
the mountain, are w^orked advantageously in fur- 
naces. 

The waters of this spring have been known to 
possess valuable medicinal properties for more 
than three-quarters of a century, and for this 
reason, as well as on account of the salubrious 
atmosphere, and its picturesque and romantic 
scenery, Schooley's Mountain has long been cele- 
brated as one of the most desirable summer resorts 
for health and pleasure. 

According 'to a chemical examination of the 
water by Dr. ISTevin, its chief ingredients are 
" muriate and sulphate .of lime and carbonated 
oxide of iron." 

Dr. Bell remarks, that ''as a pure carbonated 
chalybeate, the water of Schooley's Mountain 
Spring is well adapted to a variety of maladies 
marked chieily by anemia, debility and mucous 
discharges in w'hich there is no inflammation of 
an organ present. Its tendency to induce consti- 
pation must be watched, and this effect arrested 
by the use of mild aperients." 

Visitors to the springs "from 'Re^y York w^ill go 
to Morristown by railroad and thence by stage, or 
to the White House by railroad and thence by 



488 SPRINGS OF NEW JERSEY AND MAINE. 

stage. The springs are readied from Philadelphia 
by way of New Brunswick, and thence by'stage^ 
six miles, to Bound Brook, on the New Jersey 
Central Kailroad. By this route they reach the 
White House, and thence by stage, the springs." 

SPKINGS OF MAINE. 

Dr. C. P. Jackson, in a report upon the Geology 
of Maine, gives some account of two mineral 
springs in this State, th^ Saline Spring of Luhec, 
and Dexter' s Chalybeate Spring. 

The Saline Lubec Spring arises near the junc- 
tion of the blue limestone and red sandstone rocks, 
on the bank of a small stream near the head of 
Lubec Bay. He represents the water as clear and 
colorless, with a specific gravity of 1"025. The 
solid residuum of an imperial gallon, perfectly 
dry, was ^322 -5 grains ; 100 grains of this dry salt 
gave, by analysis, in one pint of water, the 
following results : — 

Grains. Grains. 

Chloride of sodium 640 199-000 

Sulphate of lime 3-6 11-210 

Chloride of magnesium 20-2 62-840 

Sulphate of soda 9-0 27-985 

Carbonate of iron O'B 2-490 

Carbonate of lime 2-0 6-250 

Chloride of calcium a trace. 12-720 loss. 

Carbonic acid gas 

99-6 322-500 

4 loss- 

1000 



DEXTER — SIINERAL AND THERMAL WATERS. 489 

Dexter Chalybeate Spring is located on the 
eastern branch of a stream known as Sebasticook. 
It deposits copiously "an ocherons j^ellow oxide 
of iron." Dr. Jackson considers this water a 
valuable tonic in various disorders of the digestive 
functions. 



CHAPTER XLI. 

MINERAL AND THERMAL WATERS BETWEEN THE 
MISSISSIPPI AND THE PACIFIC OCEAN. 

In California — Oregon — Kansas — New Mexico — Nebraska — 
Utah, &c. 

I DEPART from my general plan of treating only 
such springs as are improved for public use, to 
notice, in a brief way, the principal Thermal and 
Mineral Fountains that have been discovered in 
the vast regions extending from the western bor- 
ders of Iowa, Missouri and Arkansas to the Pacific 
Ocean. 

In the States of California, Oregon and Kansas, 
as well as in the Territories of New Mexico, Ne- 
braska, Utah, &c., mineral and thermal waters 



490 MINERAL AND THERMAL WATERS. 

are found *in large abundance, of very positive 
quality, and of liigli temperature. 

In North or Upper California, west of the Cas- 
cade Kange, and at the foot of Shasty Peak, 
springs are found liot enough, as travellers tell uSy 
to boil eggs. The region around is volcanic, and 
the bare summit of the Peak, rising to a height 
of 12,000 to 14,000 feet, is regarded as an extinct 
volcano. 

A few miles distant from the spring just men- 
tioned is an Acidulo-Chalyheate fountain, and so 
sparkling, pungent and effervescent is it that the 
trappers call it Soda Water. 

Dr. Le Conte describes a number of Volcanic 
Springs in the Desert of Colorado, in Southern 
California, some of which are said to resemble the 
mud volcanoes of Tarn an, in the Crimea, and 
others the eruptive springs or Geysers in Iceland. 
They are in the neighborhood, and but six or 
eight miles distant from a range of volcanic 
hills from 800 to 1,000 feet high. These springs 
consist of '^numerous circular lakes, containing 
boiling mud, and exhaling a naphtha-like odor. 
Many of them are incrusted with inspissated mud, 
forming cones" three to four feet high, from the 
apex of which proceed mingled vapors of water, 
sal ammoniac, and sulphur. Four of them eject 
steam and clear saline water, with great violence, 
resembling in appearance the jet from the pipe of 
a high-pressure engine." These springs are in a 
muddy plain, bordering on a saline lake. 



BETWEEN THE MISSISSIPPI AXD PACIFIC. 491 

A Hoi Svlpliur Spring, of tlie temperature of 
137° Fall. J exists iiear Warner's Kanclieria, about 
ninety miles from the ColoraclOj in South Cali- 
fornia. 

Oregon furnishes numerous mineral and thermal 
springs of very decided character. 

The Beer Springs, described by CoL Fremont, 
are about 135 miles, in a direct line from the 
South Pass, through the Wind Kiver Mountains, 
which separate the waters that flow into the At- 
lantic from those that find their way into the 
Pacific. 

The Beer or Soda Springs are carbonated luaters. 
They are described by Col. Fremont as existing 
in great abundance in an amphitheatre of mineral 
waters, which is enclosed by the mountains that 
sweep around the circular bend of Bear.Eiver at 
its most northern point in the State of Oregon. 

In the immediate neighborhood of the Beer or 
Soda Springs, Col. Fremont discovered a very 
remarkable fountain, which throws up its waters 
in the form of a Jet d'eaio to a variable height of 
about three feet. The flow of the water is accom- 
panied by a ^^ subterranean noise, which, together 
with the motion of the water, makes very much 
the impression of a steamboat in motion^" and 
hence it was named the Steamboat Sp)ring. This 
is a carburetted water of the temperature of 87° 
Fah. ^^ Within, perhaps, two yards of the jet 
d'eaic is a small hole of about an inch in diameter. 



492 - MINERAL AND THERMAL WATERS 

tlirougli which, at regular intervalsj escapes a 
blast of hot air, with a light wreath of smoke, 
accompanied bj a regular noise." 

Hot Springs, — About 230 miles northwest from 
Fort Hall, which is situated near the junction of 
the Pont ISTeuf Kiver with Lewis' Fork of the 
Columbia, are found Hot Springs of the tempera- 
ture of 164° Fah. 

Ilalheur Paver Springs. — At the distance of 120 
miles in a northwestern direction from the Hot 
Springs just mentioned, are the Malheur Hot 
Springs. They are in latitude 44° 17' N. and 
longitude 117° W. Their temperature is 193° 
Fah. Elevation above the sea, 1,880 feet. 

Hot and Warm Springs of Fall River. — These 
Springs are on both sides of Fall Kiver, in lati- 
tude 44° 40' ¥., 121° 5' W. longitude. They are 
about 200 miles west from the Malheur Kiver 
Springs, in the vfestern portion of the State. 

The Carhiiretted, or Boiling Springs of Pike's 
Peak. — On the southern route from Independence, 
in Missouri, to Oregon and California, the trav- 
eller passes the now famous Pike's Peak, at the 
foot of which, and ten miles from Paebla, are 
found the Boiling Springs. Their elevation is 
6,350 feet above the ocean ; their latitude 38^ 42^ 
north. 

Col. Fremont describes these springs as numer- 
ous, and some of them as unique and very beau- 
tifuL He says : ''I came suddenly upon a large. 



BETWEEN THE MISSISSIPPI AND PACIFIC. 493 

smooth rock, about twenty yards in diameter, 
where the water from several springs was bubbling 
and boiling up in the midst of a white incrusta- 
tion with which it had covered a portion of the 
rock." In describing one of this group, he says : 
^^In the upper part of the rock, which had ap- 
parently been formed by deposition, w^as a beauti- 
ful white basin, overhung by current bushes, in 
which the cold, clear water bubbled up, in con- 
stant motion by the escaping gas, and overflowing 
the rock, which it had almost entirely covered 
v/ith a smooth crust of odistenins; w^hite." 

These waters belong to the acidulous class, and 
are highly carburetted. They are said much to 
resemble the waters of the famous Seltzer Springs 
in the Duchy of Xassau. Their temperature is 
variable, ranging, under different circumstances 
of the atmosphere, from 54° to 69° Fahrenheit. 

New Mexico has numerous mineral and 
thermal springs, some of which are sulphurous, 
but they have not been described with sufficient 
accuracy to make us acquainted, either with their 
peculiar characteristics, or their precise localities. 
There are several springs in Nebraska that 
have attracted the attention of scientific travellers. 
Both Col. Fremont and Capt. Stanbury, in their 
respective narratives, notice the 

Fort Lara^he Spring. — This fountain, thermal 
in its character, is ten miles from Fort Laramie, 
42 



494 MINERAL AND THERMAL WATERS 

between the Nortli Fork of the Platte and the 
Laramie Kivers, in latitude 42° 15' IST., and longi- 
tude 104° 4:1' W. It is in the southern portion of 
the territory, 625 miles from St. Joseph's, in 
Missouri. Its temperature is 74° Fah., about the 
same as the Sweet Springs in Virginia. 

In the western part of Nebraska, near the Oregon 
line, and in the midst of the Salt Plains, in the 
valley of the Sweet Water Kiver, are found what 
are known as the Ponds of Saleratus. The 
chief of these ponds appeared to Capt. Stansbury 
^^as if frozen over, aiid covered with a light 
coating of driven snow. It was found to be a 
slight depression^, about 400 yards long, by 150 in 
width, covered with an eifervesence of carbonate 
of soda, left by the evaporation of the water 
which had held it in solution.'' This substance 
is quite abundant, and emigrants use it in their 
culinary operations in preference to the saleratus 
of the shops. 

«k 

Utah Terrirtory, more than any other portion 
of North America, abounds in thermal waters, 
many of which are sulphurous and saline, and of 
very high temperature. 

Hot Springs of Pyramid Lake. — The Pyramid 
Lake, embosomed in the Sierra Nevada Mountains, 
with its singular j)yramidial mount, rising from 
its transparent waters to the heighth of about 



BETWEEN THE MISSISSIPPI AND PACIFIC. 495 

600 feet, and walled in by almost perpendicular 
precipices, in some places near 3,000 feet high, is a 
remarkable formation, and is said to have nothing 
to resemble it in any other portion of the world. 
Its boiling springs have attracted the attention of 
the scientific. Col. Fremont describes them in 
about 39° N. latitude, and 117° 30'^ W. longitude, 
as boiling up with much noise. He states that 
the largest basin is several hundred feet in circum- 
ference, and has a circular space at one end, of 
15 feet in diameter, entirely filled with boiling 
water, whose temperature near the edge is from 
206° to 208c» Fah. Its depth, near the centre, is 
more than 16 feet. The water is impregnated 
with common salt, but not so much as to render 
it unfit for general cooking, and a mixture of 
snow makes it pleasant to drink. 

The late Capt. Gunnison, speaking of these 
springs, says : ^' At the base of the hills, around 
the lake, issue numerous warm springs, that 
collect in pools and smaller lakes, inviting aquatic 
fowl, during the winter, to resort to their agree- 
able temperature, and where insect larvae furnish 
food at all times, and the soil is so heated that 
snow cannot lie in the vicinity. In some places 
springs of dift'erent temperature are in close 
proximity ; some so hot that the hand cannot be 
thrust in them without pain." 

City Warm Sulphur Springs issue from a 
mountain on the immediate confines of Salt Lake 



496 MINERAL AND THERMAL WATERS 

City, and its waters are conveyed by pipes into 
bathing houses, within the city, for the use of the 
inhabitants. The water is sulphurous, and yields, 
upon analysis, the carbonates of lime and mag- 
nesia, with small portions of the chlorides of 
calcium and sodium, together with sulphate of 
soda. 

Three miles distant, and arising from -the side 
of the mountain just mentioned, another spring 
flows out with great boldness. The temperature 
of its water is 128° Fah. The specific gravity of 
this water is very slightly greater than that of 
distilled water. It contains chloride of sodium 
and traces of chlorides of calcium and magnesium, 
sulphate and carbonate of lime and silica. 

Between Salt Lake City and the Great Salt 
Lake, there are numerous loarm fountains^ which, 
Capt. G-unnison informs us, deposit gypsum, and 
other sulphates. They constitute delightful 
bathing, but are said to destroy the fertility of 
the soil to which their waters are applied. 

Col. Fremont thus describes a group of Hot 
Springs^ situated thirty-four miles north of Salt 
Lake City: ^^In about seven miles from Clear 
Creek, the trail brought us to a place at the foot 
of the mountain, where there issued, with con- 
siderable force, ten or twelve Hot Springs, highly 
impregnated with salt. In one of them the ther- 
mometer stood at 136°, and in another at 132° 
Fah., and the water, which spread in pools over 



BETWEEN THE MISSISSIPPI AND PACIFIC. 497 

the loAv grounds, was colored red." His analysis 
of this red earthy matter showed it to be highly 
impregnated with iron, and to contain the carbon- 
ates of magnesia and lime, with sulphate o-f lime, 
chloride of sodium, with silica and alumina. 

Kear Bear Biver is a depression, in which issue 
three fountains between the strata, within the 
space of thirty feet, of which one is Hot Sidpliur, 
the next Tepid and Salt, and the other cool, de- 
licious drinking waiter. The three currents unite, 
and flaw off through the plain, forming the be- 
ginning of a large and bold river. 

Water of the Great Salt Lake. — Dr. Gale, of 
Washington city, has examined the water of this 
wonderful saline reservoir. He describes it as 
perfectly clear, with a specific gravity of LITO ; 
common water being 1.000. One hundred parts 
evaporated to dryness gave 22.422 of solid con- 
tents, consisting of chloride of sodium 20.196, 
sulphate of soda 1.834, chloride of magnesium 
0.252, with a trace of chloride of calcium. Dr. 
G. regards this water as the purest and most con- 
centrated brine in the Avorld. The strongest 
salines of the Syracuse wells in i^ew York contain 
but 17.35 per cent, of the chloride of sodium. 

Various Salt and Sulphur Spring arise from the 
mountains and plains near the Great Salt Lake, 
and flow into it. 

Thermal Saline Springs. — 'Capt. Stansbury, in 
his narrative, informs us of the Warm Saline whose 
42* 



498 MINERAL AND THERMAL WATERS. 

temperature is 74° Fall,, that breaks out from 
the mountaiu at the northern end of the lake, and 
of the Warm Spi^ings in the same locality, whose 
temperature is 84° Fah. 

We are told that the whole western shore of 
Salt Lake, bounded by an immense plain of soft 
mudj is traversed by numerous rills of sulphurous 
and salt water, that mostly sink into the earth, 
or are evaporated before they reach the lake. 

Thermal Saline Springs of Spring Valley. — In 
this Valley, lying on the western side of the 
mountain that extends in a southerly direction 
from the south end of Salt Lake, thermal saline 
springs are so numerous as to give the name to 
their location. Their temperature is generally 
about 74° Fah. 



THERMAL SPRINGS OF AMERICA. 499 



CHAPTER XLII. 
THERMAL SPRINGS OF AMERICA, 

I have thought that it would he interesting 
to my readers to have a condensed view of the 
various Thermal Springs of the United States and 
its Territories. 

Virginia is rich in thermal waters^ and up to 
the time of the discovery of the numerous Hot 
Springs of ISTew Mexico, was regarded as possess- 
ing more of this class of waters than any other 
portion of the Ct)ntinent. 

I shall first notice the thermal waters of Vir- 
ginia, and shall regard all the Springs as belong- 
ing to that class whose waters are distinctly above 
the mean temperature of the immediate country 
in which they arise. In this class I include the 
Greenbrier White Sulphur, although not gener- 
ally regarded as a thermal spring ; but the fact 
that it is full ten degrees above the mean temper- 
ature of the atmosphere and the media through 
which it flows, as well as of the neighboring foun- 
tains, properly gives to it thai character. 



500 THERMAL SPEINGS OF AMERICA. 



Fahrenheit. 

White Sulphur, Virginia 62° 

Holston Springs, Scott Co., Ya 68=^ 

Bath, Berkeley Co., Ya •. 73° 

Sweet Springs, Monroe Co., Ya 73 to 74° 

Red Sweet, Alleghany Co., Ya 75 to 79° 

Healing Spring, Bath Co., Ya 85° 

Warm Springs, Bath Co., Ya 98° 

Hot Springs, " " '. . . 98 to 106° 

Perry County, Pennsylvania 72° 

Lebanon, New York 73° 

Merriwether County, Georgia 95° 

Buncombe County, North Carolina 94 to 104° 

Warm Springs, French Broad, Tennessee. . . . 95° 

Florida Sulphur Springs 70° 

Washita, Arkansas 140 to 156° 

Spring near Fort Laramie, Nebraska 74° 

Hot Sulphur Springs of California 137° 

Hot Springs at Shasty's Peak, California 

Great Salt Lake City Warm Springs 

Great Salt Lake Hot Springs, Utah . . . -. 123° 

Great Salt Lake Hot Chalybeate, thirty miles 

from Great Salt Lake 132 to 136° 

Great Salt Lake Thermal Saline 74 to 84° 

Great Salt Lake Spring Yalley Saline 70 to 74° 

Bear River Warm and Hot Springs, 74 miles 

northwest from Salt Lake City 134° 

Lake Utah Warm Springs 

Hot Springs, Oregon 164° 

Malheur River Hot Springs, Oregon. . . .■ 193° 

Hot and Warm Springs, Fall River, Oregon. 89 to 134° 
Hot Springs, Pyramid Lake, Utah* 206 to 208° 

" Mineral and Thermal gprings Of the United States, by Bell. 



MINERAL SPRINGS OF CANADA. 50J- 



CHAPTEE XLIII. 
MINEKAL SPRINGS OF CANADA. 

The Caledonia Springs. — These springs are 
situated about forty miles from Montreal, and a 
few miles south of the Ottawa Eiver. They are 
a place of considerable resort daring the summer 
season. There are four springs in this group 
deserving of notice. They are known as the Gas, 
the Saline J the Sidphur, and the Intermitting 
Spring. 

The first three issue through a pliocene clay, 
within a few rods of each other. They are all 
more or less alkaline in character, the Svl'pliur the 
most so. The intermitting Spring is two miles 
distant from the others, abounds in earthy chlo- 
rides^ and emits carburetted hydrogen gas largely 
at irregular intervals. 

1. The Gas Spring. — The temperature of this 
spring was found to be 44°. 4. when the ther- 
mometer stood in the air at 61°. 7. It discharges 
about four gallons of water per minute, and 
evolves a gas, ascertained to be carburetted hydro- 
gen, at the rate of 300 cubic inches a minute. Its 



502 MINERAL SPRINaS OF CANADA. 

specific gravity is 1006*2. Its taste pleasantly 
saline, without bitterness. Its saline ingredients 
in 1000 parts, T'TTTS. Carbonic acid in 100 cubic 
inches, 17.5. 

2. Saline Spring. — This spring is not very dis- 
similar from the one just named, but, notwith- 
standing, from the name it bears, is somewhat 
less saline. Its temperature and specific gravity 
are essentially the same. Occasionally it emits a 
stray bubble of carburetted hydrogen, but the 
amount of that gas evolved is very small. It is 
somewhat more strongly alkaline than the Gas 
Spring. This spring yields 10 gallons per 
minute, and to every 1000 parts of its water 
gives 7*347 parts' of solid matter. Its free car- 
bonic acid is 14-7 cubic inches in 100 cubic inches 
of water. 

3. Sulphur Spring. — The water of this spring 
is slightly sulpliurous in taste and odor. Solid 
matter in 1000 parts 4-9506. It is somewhat 
more alkaline than the other springs of the group, 
contains silica in a relatively large proportion, 
and exhibits traces of iodine and iron. 

4. Intermitting Spring.' — The temperature of 
tbis spring was 50° when the atmosphere around 
was Gl°. Solid matter in 1000 parts of its waters, 
14 '639 parts. Chemical examination detects the 



MINERAL SPRINas OF CANADA. 503 

existence of bromine, chlorine and iodine in the 
water, with sodium, potassium, magnesium and 
calcium. A large portion of the two latter exist 
in the form of chlorides. Traces of alumina and 
iron are also found. 

TuscARORA Acid Spring. — This spring is located 
in Tuscarora Township, 21 miles north of Port 
Dover. Its waters abound in free sulphuric acid, 
in the proportion of 4 parts in 1000, and, also, 
with the sulphate of the alkalies, magnesia, lime, 
alumina and iron in small quantities. It emits 
occasional bubbles of carburetted hydrogen, and 
its waters are acid and styptic to the taste, and 
decidedly sulphurous, while the odor of sulphur- 
etted hydrogen is manifest for some distance 
around the spring. 

Charlottesville Sulphur Spring. — This spring 
is in the neighborhood of Port Dover, on Lake 
Erie. Its waters are sparkling and limpid, their 
odor strongly sulphurous. The taste of the water 
is pungent, with a slight impression of sweetness, 
leaving a sense of warmth in the mouth. Chem- 
ical examinations show the presence of Chlorides 
and sulphates in the water ; the bases are ascer- 
tained to be soda^ potash, magnesia and lime, with 
traces of iron and alumina. It abounds very 
strongly in sulphuretted hydrogen, containing 
26*8 cubic inches to the gallon. Its solid matter 
is 2-49446 parts to 1000. , 



504 MINERAL SPRINGS OF CANADA. 

Mineral Artesian Wells at St. Catharine's^ 
Canada West. — The analysis of this water, as 
reported in a printed circular, is very extra- 
ordinary. If the published statement of its 
analysis, by Dr. Chilton, be correct, and the water 
sent to him for examination was the natural water 
of Si. Catharine's, the quantities in which its 
ingredients are held in solution, when we consider 
their joeculiar character, are unexampled in the 
history of mineral fountains. 

Dr. John Bell,* with amiable manifestations of 
incredulity, remarks : ^' Assuming the printed 
statements of the results of an analysis, by Dr. 
Jas. E. Chilton, to be correct, the saline ingre- 
dients of this water are in a singularly large 
proportion, and this, too, of certain salts, which 
are far from being common, still less abundant, in 
mineral springs. A pint of the water is repre- 
sented to holdin solution 5*064-15 grains of saline 
substances, which arc equal to nearly five-sevenths 
of the watery menstruum in which they are dis- 
solved. In other words, 16 ounces of the water 
hold in solution rather more than 10^ ounces of 
saline matter. They are in the following propor- 
tions, in one pint of water ; its specific gravity at 
60° Fah. beino; 1-0347 : 



* Mineral and Thermal waters of the United States and 
Canada. . 



MINERAL SPRINGS OF CANADA. 505 

Cliioride of calcium 2950*40 

" of magnesium 1289"76 

of sodium 781-36 

Proto-cliloride of iron 13-76 

Sulphate of lime. 16-32 

Carbonates of lime and magnesia 2-08 

Bromade of magnesimn | 

Iodide of magnesium ^^ ^^^^' 

Silica and Alumina 47 

(Grains) 5064-15 

^'According to tliis analysisj the proportioD of 
chloride of calcium (muriate of lime) in the water 
is a little more even than that which is found in 
the solution of this salt, directed by the Pharma- 
copoeia of the United States, viz.: one part of the 
chloride in two and a half parts of the solution." 
On reading a little further, after the table of con- 
stituents of this water, we come to a ^' Card to 
the Public," in which we learn that the product 
of the artesian well is subjected to a certain pro- 
cess of depuration and evaporation, and that 
'Hliat part which is composed of common salt 
first settles and is removed ; the remainder is 
dipped into vats until the earthy matter subsides, 
and then bottled off without any drug or admix- 
ture whatever being added thereto." Dr. Bell 
adds: '^One thing seems to be certain, that the 
water bottled and sent away, is a water prepared 
from that of St. Catharine's well, but not the 
water, the direct flow from the vein or veins 
43 



506 MIN-ERAL SPRmaS OF CANADA. 

' opened by boring.' He furtber adds, in proof of 
the wonderful differences in the strength of the 
saline impregnations of different specimens of 
this water, that Mr. J. E. Young, an intelligent 
chemist, examined a specimen of this water left 
at the shop of Professor Proctor, of the Philadel- 
phia College of Pharmacy, with the assurance 
that it was from St. Catharine's well, in its 
original state, with the following results: — 
'^Specific gravity, 1.39U; saline contents in one 
ounce, 164 grains, and in one pint, 2.624 grains. 
This last, large as is the proportion, is only a 
little more than one-half of the quantity of the 
salts contained in a pint of the Wcitcr sent to Dr. 
Chilton for analysis.'' 

Varennes Springs. — These Springs are on the St. 
Lawrence, seventeen miles below Montreal. Many 
years ago they were largely resorted to, but less 
so of late years, and probably from no want of 
merit in the waters. 

There are two springs here, called the Gas and 
the Saliae Spriiig. Both springs contain iodide, 
chloride and bromide of sodium, witli carbonates 
of soda, strontia, baryta, lime, magnesia and 
iron. The temperature of the water is 45° to 
4^° Fab. 

St. Leon Spring — Is a Saline Chali/heate, similar 
in its general character to the springs of Yarennes, 



MINERAL SPRINGS OF CANADA. 507 

but containing more iron. It emits large quanti- 
ties of carburetted hydrogen gas. 

The Plaxtagenet Spring derives its name from 
the township in which it is situated. It is near 
the river Ottawa. It resembles in the general 
character of its waters the St. Leon Spring. 

Caxton Spring. — This Spring is found in Caxton 
township, on the river Yarnachiche. It resembles 
very much the St. Leon and Plantagenet Springs 
in the character of its waters^ and like the St. 
Leon, evolves large quantities of carburetted 
hydrogen. 



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BALTIMORE, MD. 

Jmp0rters % Jobbers of J|ibbons 

OF EVERY KIND, 

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VELVET, CRAPES, ILLUSION'S, Sc, 

Straw Bonnets and Flats, 

TRIMMED STRAW GOODS, SHAKER HOODS, 

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\^ [LATE Thomas Mackenzie & Sons.] >iT^ 

^^ IMPORTERS OF AND DEALERS IN ^*^ 

Coaeli aid ^aidler j 



ObiJ^e>JK 



No. 222 Baltimore St. 



[Established in 1825.] 



•altimore^ ®d. 



Felloes, Saddle Trees, Htibs,^ 

Spokes f Sheej} Shifts , Springs, 

Shoe Thread, Hog Skins, Canvas„ 

baddiers Mairj 

Enameled Leather, Harness Leather, 

Carinage Bolls, Moss, Bag Leather, 
Stirrups, Tire Bolts, TF heels. 

Skirting, Bits, Varnish, <S)€ , 4&c, 
A LS o, 

All other Articles appertaining to the Business. 



Receiving by every Steamer from Liverpool (England) the 
Latest Styles of Goods, w^e can compete w^ith any House in 
our line in the United States. 



iepot. 



COLEMAN & ROGERS, 

J!fo. 173 Baltinmre Street, 

Keep themselves always Supplied with the following 

DIRECT FROM THE SPRINGS, 

To which they are constantly adding new Waters of any merit, as 

they are introduced, and consumers can rely upon their 

Freshness and Pcrity : 

ST. CATHARIXE'S, (Canada,) MISSISQUOI, STAR, 

CONGRESS, EMPIRE, EXCELSIOR, 

WASHINGTON, (Chalybeate,) 

HIGH ROCK, BEDFORD, OAK ORCBARD ACID, 

VICHY, 1 

KISSINGEN, [- Artificial, H. Smith's, 

KI3SINGEN, (Bitter,) j 

SHARON SULPHUR, SELTZER, (German,) HEALING, 

ALLEGHANY, ROCKBRIDGE ALUM, 

BEDFORD ALUM AND IODINE, BLUE LICK, 

GREENBRIER WHITE SULPHUR, 

COYNER'S WHITE SULPilUR, AUGUSTA ALUM. 



9iS 



oBIIiite ^utpliur ^jrinflisi, 

CATAWBA COUNTY, 

North Carolina- 



The Profirietors of this celt.Lrated waterin(r-i>lace having gone to 
great exi)ense in havii^g cottages moved, walks graded, and a large 
number of new buildings erected, together with other itn[»rovements, 
are now prepaied to accommodate a large number of visitors, and 
will open the Springs for the reception of the same on the First Day 
OF June. Being situated in the Northwestern part of the State, in 
full view of the mountains, a healthier and more delightful location 
is not to be found ; and for beautiful flowers, shady gioves and walks, 
it is second to no other watering-place South. 

The Mineral Waters of these Springs are composed of White 
Sulphur, Blue Sulphur and Chalybeate, the medical properties of 
which stand unrivaled, and any number of certificates can be pro- 
duced testifsing to their health-restoring qualities. Our rooms are 
newly furnished with new mattresses, linen sheets, &c., and visitors- 
may rely upon having good fare and every attention paid to their 
comfort. Persons coming to the Springs from Baltimore or Washing- 
ton, by taking the early train, via Richmond, arrive at Salisbury the 
same even'ng, where they will find good accommadations for the 
night, and the next morning take tlie Statesville and Morganton 
Railroad, and arrive at tiie Springs in lime for dinner. By the old 
Bay Line yoti leave Raltimore in the afternoon, take the cars the next 
moruing at Portsmouth, Y&.^ and arrive at Salisbury the same even- 
ing. This is decidedly a pleasant route, and you can procure Through 
Tickets on the Boat and have B.-iggajie checked through to Salisbury. 
A good Brass and String Band, comi)osed of the best performers, will 
be at the Springs the entire season, or until October, and visitors may 
rely upon our having good music. 

A good Physician will be at the Springs the entire season, and' 
invalids may rely upon having every attention paid them. 

Board by the month, week or day, reasonable, and fare not excelled. 

J. GOLDEN WYATT & CO., 

I'JROPmETOItS^ 



^wr' 




MONBOE COLJ\TY, ^ 



-¥■ 4-*^ «- 



The undersigned would respectfully inform his friends and 
the public that he has taken the above famous and salubrious 
WATERING PLACE, and that it will be opened for the recep- 
tion of Visitors on the FIFTEENTH OF JUNE, with every 
appointment and attraction to render it, as heretofore, the 
most desirable Summer Resort in the United States. 

He need only refer to those who have known his previous 
career as a caterer, to have his assurance believed that the 
cuisiney cellars, attendance and accommodations will be un- 
surpassed. 

The Sweet Springs are approached from Washington City 
by the Orange and Alexandria and Virginia Central Rail- 
roads. 

Parties desiring to make arrangements for visiting the 
Springs, or for information, should address the undersigned, 

Siveet Sprinrfs, Monroe Coutity, 

West Virghtitt, 

JAMES CARROLL. 

1* 



INo, IT4. Baltimore S^^treet, Baltimore, 

HA VE JUST PUBLISHED: 
A. TBEATISE OW TRACTTJRES of the, LOWER EXTREMITT^ 
AND THE USE OF THE ANTERIOR SUSPENSORY APPA- 
RATUS in the TREATMENT OF THOSE INJURIES. Fullij 
Illustrated by Cuts and Diagrams ; toff ether with Numerous Cases 
furnished by eminent Surgeons. BY PROFESSOR NATHAN R, 
SMITH, of the University of Maryland, 1 vol. Srr^ printed on toned 
paper, and strongly bound in cloth, beveled boards. Price ^3.00. 

RONNEVAI. A Tale of Paris in the Davs of St. Vineent de Paul. By 
Rev. W. H. Anderdon. 12mo. cloth, $1.50. Cloth, full gilt, $2.00. 
"Antoine dk BONNEVA.L prcseuts us with a curious narrative of events 
occurring in and near Paris in the days of tae Fronde, depicted under the 
alluring form of romance; the author — thoroughly versed in the history of 
that period, and using his story simply as a' vehicle for illustrating the 
manners and morals prevailing at that day — furnishes us with a series of 
portraits of the great men who swayed the destinies of France during the 
earlier portions r,f Louis XI V's reign. ******* 

* * This bo'k presents the remarkable aspect of rorwance utterly 

devoid of even an allusion to love. To the reader, unlearned yet interested 
in the history of these stirring times, the knowledge acquired under thig 
amusing form will be most welcome; and should nis sympathies be enlisted 
in the interests of Catholicism the attraction will be greatly enhanced. The 
liberality, however, of the writer's views, and the absence of all religious 
animositj', will render his work acceptable to those differing from him in 
heheV—Eouud Tabic. 

EDGEWORTH'S EARLY LESSONS. By Miss Mari.4 Edgeworth. 

o vols., cloth, $1.2o. This Series is composed of the following books, 
neatly pa« ked in a box: "Frank." "Sequel to Frank." "Rosamond."" 
" Harry and Lucy." " Harry and Lucy Concluded." 

ELEMENTS ( F GEOMETRY. By A. M. Legendre. With Additions 
and Modifications by M. A. Blanchet, Eleve of the Polytechnic School;: 
Director of Studies of St. Barbe. Translated front the Eleventh French 
edition, by Francis H. ^inith. A. M., Superintendent and Professor of 
Mathematics in the Virginia Military Institute, Lexington, Va. 
The present translation is from the last French edition of I^egendre, withi 
additions and modifications bj' 31. A. Blanchet, an eleve of the Ecole Poly- 
technique, and director of studies of Sainte- Barbe. 

M. Blanchet has materially improved the original text of I^egendre,. not 
only in the general arrangement of the work, but in the simple demonstra- 
tions he has given for the measures of the circle, cylinder, cone and sphere. 
Valuable Appendices are also added, embracing The Theory of Transversals ; 
The Pole and Polar Line ; Maximum Fic/ures under a given Perimeter ; together 
with copious examples, for the exercise of the student, in the demonstra- 
tion of Theorems and in the solution of Geometrical Problems. 

This translation of Blanchefs edition of Legendre's Geometry constitutes 
one of the Mathematical Series of the Virginia Military Insti'ute. The fol- 
lowing works, embraced in this series, have already been published: 

Smith's Introductory Arithmetic, for the use of Beginners $0 45- 

Smith's Aritlimetic, for the use of Schools and Academies 75- 

Smith/s Key to ditto 50' 

Smith's Algebra. A new edition, enlarged 12mo 2 00' 

Smith's / if)t's Analytical Geoiuetry 2 50' 

First Steps in French. Being an Introducti<in to the French Lan- 
guage. By P. F. de Gournay, late of New Orleans, La. Square ICmo., 
cloth " , 60" 



'"We have seen no American Poem for Years Superior to it."— Land we Love.. 
JUST PUBLISHED--THE CREAT SOUTHERN POEM, 

A RHYME OF THE WAR, 

BY MRS. MARGARET J. PRESTON, OF LEXINGTON, VA. 

An Entirely New Edition. Beautifclly Illustrated from Designs by 
William L. Sheppard. of Richmond, ^'A. Small 4to.. Bound in Fine 
Cloth, Gilt Edges, .S'3 50. Morocco Antique, .S'600. This Edition of 
this most celebrated Poem is gotten up in Beautiful Style, and is 

NOT surpassed by ANY OF THE BoOKS ISSUED FROM THE PrESS OF THE 

Northern Cities. Also, Now Ready — a Cheap Edition. Seventh 
Thousand. 12mo., Cloth, Beveled Boards — Price .Sl.if.D. Cloth, Gilt 
Edged, .f i.75. Sent Free by Mail on Receipt of Price. 

IVotices of the JB*ress». 

A. publisher's printed estimate of the sale of his publications is usually some- 
what imaginative ; to u-se a threadbare but serviceable quotation, "The wish is 
often father to the thought.-' Yet, in this case, we see no reason to doubt the- 
entire veracity of Messrs^ Kelly & Piet in announcing "fifth thousand '' on the 
title pag of this volume. It is one which, we should judge, would be immensely 
popular among the people fur whom it was written, and to whose sectional pride 
and prejudices it appeals in more ways than one In all respects it is essentially 
Southern, and, in most, it is praiseworthy. In two points particularly they chal- 
lenge Southern admiration; in the first place, they are not absolutely trash, which 
is quite an advance on the majority of Southern verse ; and in the second place,, 
their merit is even sufiicient to dimly foreshadow a time when the Sunny South 
shall achieve intellectual emancipation in a literature of its own, and be no- 
longer dependent on New England for poetry as well as piety, politics and prints. 
To the author's own people, therefore, unjaded as yet by the worship of many 
literary idols, her book must be peculiarly grateful ; even we of the North who 
are not tainted by that sombre fanaticism that sees no good in Nazareth, may 
find in it much to admire and applaud The verse is graceful and flowing, and 
the language and sentiment prove the author to be a lady of refined and cultivated 
taste. The story of Heecheibrook — a story mournfully trite to thousands of aching 
hearts — is simply and gracefully told, and some of the shorter poems interspersed — 
Only a Private And -luUi n battle — are not without pathos. — 'Ike Hound Table. 

We regard the poem as one of very considerable merit, and at times the au- 
thoress soars in the highest strains of martial poetry. 

The dirg i of Ashby is one of the most beautiful and touching elegiac effusions- 
we have ever read. 

The rhythm is faultless, and in regard to its poetical excellence, the "Charge- 
of the Light Brigade" was not conceived in a higher spirit of inspiratiori. — 
Catholi': Mirror. 

The modest little volume "Beeckenbrook" is a poem with a smooth versifica- 
tion. Occasionally there are passages of pathos and tenderness that almost rise 
to power, the death of McPherson for instance. — N. Y. Day Book. 

As a souvenir of the war. as well as for its many literary merits, this volume 
will enjoy a permanent popularity. — Kichmond Wnig. 

Its perusal will doubtless evoke many tears of fond and proud, though mourn- 
ful remembrance, from hearts whose yearnings are still for the noble dead. — 
Richmond Examiner. 

Beechenbrook is, as it professes to be, a Southern Rhyme of the late war,, 
and, of course, a tale of mingled enthusiasm and sorrow, "it is full of a natural 
pathos which will moisten many eyes. — Balto. Gazette. 

A touching poem descriptive of woman's sacrifice and sulfering, and dedicatedl 
to every Southern woman who has been widowed by the war. It will be read 
with interest and find many sympathetic responses, especially in that section in 
which kindred experience has been but too frequent. It is a pleasure to refer to- 
the handsome manner in which the book is gotten up. being entirely a Baltimore 
production, and reflecting the highest credit "on the publishers — Sun. 

KELLY k PIET, Printers and Publishers, 

No. 174 linltimore Street, Baltimore. 



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Daniel Miller & Co, Baker Brothers & Co. 

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F. B. I^oney & Co. 



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it opposed coercion, until its editors were imprisoned, and the paper itself 
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As compared with other city papers of the same size, it has the largest 
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IMPORTERS OF 




24:0 Baltimore Street^ 



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GROVER d- BAKER S. M. CO. 

181 Baltimore Street, Baltimore, 



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